Charged With Criminal Trespass

The Law Offices of Leon Matchin, LLC provides quality criminal defense throughout Central New Jersey. We represent clients charged with violating N.J.S.A. 2C:18-3; criminal trespass as well as other disorderly persons offenses. Criminal trespass is described as unlawful entry of a structure/property. This violation is broken down into three distinct categories and resulting penalties:

Penalties for Trespassing

• • Unlicensed Entry of Structures: entering a building without authorization. If a person trespasses another person’s home or a property belonging to a school, he or she could be charged with fourth degree trespassing, which can lead to six (6) months in jail and a $1,000.00 fine.
  • Unlawful Peering into Windows: more commonly known as “peeping.” Unlawful peering is a fourth degree criminal offense, subjecting you to six (6) months in jail and a $1,000.00 fine.
  • Defiant Trespasser: entering a place despite having been given notice to stay off the premises. This notice can be given in the form of an actual communication by an angry property owner or it can be communicated through a “PRIVATE PROPERTY” sign. Defiant trespassing is a petty disorderly persons offense, and a conviction could expose the offender to 30 days in jail and a fine of $1,000.00.

Other penalties for trespassing include financial restitution to the victim, long-term suspension of the offender’s driver’s license and assessments to the Victims of Crime Compensation Board and to the Safe Neighborhood Services Fund. A conviction can also tarnish a person’s permanent record.

Call the Law Office of LeonMatchin, LLC Today

If you have been charged with criminal trespassing The Law Offices of Leon Matchin, LLC may be able to have the charges against you dismissed or downgraded. Together we will review the circumstances surrounding your case and develop the best strategy to protect your rights and freedom. Call today for a free consultation (732) 887-2479.