Criminal Trespass in the First Degree
In Washington State, a person commits the crime of criminal trespass in the first degree when he or she knowingly enters or remains unlawfully in a building.
To convict a person of the crime of criminal trespass in the first degree, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt each of the following elements: that the defendant knowingly entered or remained in a building; that the defendant knew that the entry or remaining was unlawful; and that this act occurred in the State of Washington.
A fenced area does not constitute a “building” for the purposes of criminal trespass in the first degree.
Criminal trespass in the first degree is a gross misdemeanor. A gross misdemeanor is punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine.
CALL (206) 771-4343 TO SPEAK TO A SEATTLE TRESPASSING LAWYER
Criminal Trespass in the Second Degree
In Washington State, a person commits the crime of criminal trespass in the second degree when he or she knowingly enters or remains unlawfully in or upon premises of another under circumstances not constituting criminal trespass in the first degree.
To convict a person of the crime of criminal trespass in the second degree, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt each of the following elements: that the defendant knowingly entered or remained in or upon the promises of another under circumstances not constituting criminal trespass in the first degree; that the defendant knew that the entry or remaining was unlawful; and that this act occurred in the State of Washington.
Criminal trespass in the second degree is a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and by up to a $1,000 fine.
CALL (206) 771-4343 TO SPEAK TO A SEATTLE TRESPASSING LAWYER
As you can tell, trespassing is a serious criminal offense that can land a person in jail in addition to a heavy fine. If you are being accused with trespassing, be sure to call Community Law Firm, PLLC at (206) 771-4343.
