Available 24/7 (206) 209-0608 Free Case Review
Get a FREE case review now.
We are available 24/7 to take your call. (206) 209-0608
If you have been accused, charged or arrested for criminal trespass, it is because you are believed to have knowingly entered or remained on a location unlawfully. The crime of criminal trespassing can be charged as a misdemeanor or a gross misdemeanor, depending upon the location where you were arrested and other circumstances that may be involved. The Seattle Police Department is adamant about reducing the number of trespassers in the Seattle area, and they have created a new Criminal Trespassing Program to assist property owners in addressing crime that occurs on their property.
This new program provides uniform arrangements and signage that property owners can post on their property. Any person who is then found to be in violation of the posted conditions will be subject to receive a Trespass Warning in addition to any other enforcement actions that may be warranted. If you have received a Trespass Warning, you will be subject to immediate arrest if you are found at the same address in violation of the Conditions of Entry again. Unlike the 1 year time period under the admonishment program, these Trespass Warnings do not expire. This program was created for businesses, and the procedure for enforcement of the Criminal Trespass law on private property throughout Washington remains the same.
In Washington, if you are convicted of a gross misdemeanor such as Criminal Trespassing in the 1st Degree, you could face penalties of up to a year in jail and pay fines up to $5,000. Similarly, a person convicted of a misdemeanor such as Criminal Trespassing in the 2nd Degree could face penalties of up to 90 days in jail and pay fines up to $1,000. If you are facing criminal trespassing charges, it is very important that you speak with an experienced Seattle criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Your lawyer can help build a solid defense on your behalf that is aimed at getting you the outcome you desire. Depending upon your situation, your legal advocate may even be able to get your charges reduced or dismissed altogether.
It is always important to speak with an attorney if you are facing any type of criminal accusation, including trespassing. If you are convicted of a crime, that offense remains on your record and it may cause certain difficulties for you later in life. Not only do you have your present to consider, you must also provide for your future success and freedom. That is why the criminal trespassing lawyers at Lewis & Laws, PLLC are devoted to providing you with an experienced and aggressive defense. Your freedom and rights are important to you and they should be equally important to your legal representative.
