Unlawful Entry Lawyer DC

Defending Your Rights with Unlawful Entry Lawyers in Washington, DC

Monument Legal specializes in defending individuals against a spectrum of Unlawful Entry charges in Washington, DC. Unlawful Entry offenses encompass a range of actions, from entering private property without permission to refusing to leave public property after being asked by the owner.

It is crucial to have an experienced DC Unlawful Entry attorney represent you if you have been charged with Unlawful Entry.

An experienced DC Unlawful Entry lawyer can assess your case’s strengths and weaknesses, negotiate with the prosecution, and provide guidance throughout the legal process. They can challenge evidence, negotiate diversion agreements, and represent you in court to get you the best possible outcome for your circumstance.

The criminal defense attorneys at Monument Legal have the courtroom-tested legal experience needed to defend you against Unlawful Entry charges and tenaciously fight for the best possible results in your case.

Stop delaying and schedule a consult. Find out what you are facing in a complimentary consultation with an experienced DC Unlawful Entry attorney and rest easier tonight!

Frequently Asked Questions

Unlawful entry, also known as trespassing, is a misdemeanor crime in Washington D.C. defined by D.C. Code §22-3302. It occurs when someone enters or stays on property without lawful permission.

In Washington DC, unlawful entry charges hinge on the following elements proven by the prosecutor beyond a reasonable doubt:

  • Entering Private Property: The defendant must have entered onto private property. This doesn’t include public spaces.
  • Voluntary Act: The entry needs to be purposeful and voluntary, not accidental or due to mistake.
  • Unauthorized Entry: The entry has to be without lawful authority and against the will of the rightful owner or occupant.
  • Knowledge of Being Unwelcome: The defendant must have known or should have known their presence was unwanted.

Unlawful Entry is considered a misdemeanor. There’s a distinction between entering private and public property:

  • Private Property: Maximum penalty of 180 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
  • Public Property: Maximum penalty of 6 months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine (also allows a jury trial for the defendant).

The law treats public property differently from private property, but unlawful entry (trespassing) still applies.

  • Specific Restrictions or Areas: Public places can have designated restricted areas or times where access is limited. Entering these areas without permission can be unlawful entry.
  • Refusal to Leave: Even in a generally open public space, if you are asked to leave by a person in charge (e.g., security guard, park ranger) and refuse, it becomes unlawful entry.

It is important to follow any rules or restrictions posted in public spaces.

Additionally, if someone with authority asks you to leave, it is best to comply to avoid arrest for unlawful entry.

Consult with a DC Unlawful Entry Lawyer

Consult with a DC Unlawful Entry Lawyer

If you or a loved one is facing Unlawful Entry charges in Washington, DC, consulting with an experienced Unlawful Entry lawyer is essential. An experienced Unlawful Entry attorney can help you understand your options, build a defense strategy, and navigate the legal system effectively. Contact Monument Legal today for a consultation and personalized legal assistance tailored to your case.

Why choose Monument Legal?

We have extensive experience handling Unlawful Entry charges and are familiar with the judges and the prosecutors. In addition, we will be by your side every step of the way, keeping you informed, answering your questions, and addressing your concerns. Our one goal in every case is to get our clients the best possible outcome. We care about your case, and we care about you.

Monument Legal consistently provides excellent results for their clients, including:

  • Diversion agreements
  • No jail time
  • Case dismissals