Visiting a friend or family member can be enjoyable, especially when you intend to have fun and bond as a guest. However, it can be the opposite if no one invites you over, which could be trespassing. The risks associated with being an uninvited guest can go up, depending on the area you enter and the circumstances of the incident.
For some, trespassing could seem like a minor issue, which can be the case when there were no damages. Although, it could become a criminal offense based on the situation’s details. A trespassing incident could be a misdemeanor if it involves the following factors:
- The trespasser was aware that they weren’t supposed to enter the premises.
- Nobody authorized entry into the location, whether it’s a building, vehicle or area, more so when told by authorities not to enter.
- The area does not welcome visitors like a controlled facility or fenced property.
Additionally, the severity of the offense could be worse depending on what happened before and during the incident, such as whether it involved a vehicle or a secured government structure. Additional charges can also be brought on top of the criminal trespass violation, which may happen if there were physical altercations or you had weapons on you at that time.
Understanding what to do about criminal charges
A criminal trespassing offense is often a misdemeanor, but depending on the scenario, it could escalate to a felony. In these instances, having experienced counsel could be beneficial, mainly if the details might complicate the case over time. Additionally, a professional could help clarify any confusing information while protecting your rights at every step of the legal process.
