Criminal Trespassing

Criminal trespassing is a common offense that can occur in many different scenarios. The most common form of trespassing is trespass occurs when an individual willfully enters on remains in a structure or conveyance without authorization or invitation. If you have been charged with this type of criminal trespassing or any other type, contact a St. Petersburg property crimes attorney immediately.

Pinellas County Criminal Trespassing Attorney

Melinda Morris is a devoted property crimes lawyer who represents clients throughout Pinellas County and the entire Tampa Bay area, including St. Petersburg, Tampa, Hillsborough, Pasco, Manatee, Sarasota, and Pinellas County who have been charged with criminal trespassing.

Property crimes such as criminal trespassing have the potential to lead to substantial fines and years behind bars. In order to protect your freedom, contact an experienced defense attorney who will work diligently to prepare your defense. Morris Law Firm, P.A. offers free consultations, call us today at (727) 592-5885.

Overview on Criminal Trespassing in Florida

• Types of Criminal Trespassing in Florida
• Penalties for Criminal Trespassing
• Serving Clients Facing Criminal Trespassing Charges in St. Petersburg

Types of Criminal Trespassing in Florida

Chapter 810 of the Florida Statutes provides information on other forms of criminal trespassing:

Trespass on Property other than a Structure or Conveyance (Fla. Stat. § 810.09): An individual can be charged with this offense if he or she enters or remains on any property that is not a structure or conveyance, and is given notice by a posted sign, fencing, or verbally. This offense is considered the first-degree misdemeanor.

Trespass upon Grounds or Facilities of a School (Fla. Stat. § 810.097): This type of trespassing occurs when an individual enters or remains on school grounds who does not have legitimate business on campus or is a student who has been suspended or expelled. This offense is usually considered a first-degree misdemeanor.

Trespass on School Property with Firearm (Fla. Stat. § 810.095): An individual can be charged with this crime if he or she trespasses on school property, while in possession of a firearm. If arrested for this offense, the alleged offender will face third-degree felony charges. If the individual is authorized or invited onto property, but is then asked to leave and refuses to do so, he or she can also be charged with criminal trespassing.

It is important to note that anytime an individual commits criminal trespassing while in possession of a dangerous weapon, he or she can face upgraded charges. In most cases, aggravating factors result in third-degree felony charges.

Penalties for Criminal Trespassing

According to Fla. Stat. § 775.082 and § 775.083, the penalties for criminal trespassing are as follows:

• Second-degree misdemeanor: Maximum of 60 days in jail, and/or a fine up to $500
• First-degree misdemeanor: Up to a year in jail, and/or up to a $1,000 fine
• Third-degree felony: Up to five years in prison, and/or a fine up to $5,000

If you are facing charges for criminal trespassing, it is important to understand that being charged with an offense does not automatically mean you will be convicted of it. Often times, individuals have valid explanations for their actions, and their explanations can be clearly presented with the help of a defense attorney.

Serving Clients Facing Criminal Trespassing Charges in St. Petersburg

Attorney Melinda Morris has years of practical experience when it comes to representing clients accused of property crimes in St. Petersburg, Tampa Bay, Bartow, Clearwater, and Pinellas County. If you have been arrested for criminal trespassing, Melinda Morris is more than willing to fight for you.

Contact Morris Law Firm, P.A. at (727) 592-5885 for more information on what we can do for you. We are committed to ensuring that our client’s rights are protected, and we will provide you with the best defense possible.