Being charged with aggravated trespassing in Lakeland, Florida, can leave defendants with a lot of questions and serious worries about the future. If convicted, you may face jail time, a permanent criminal record, and court orders limiting your freedom.
That’s why it is so important to know your rights and seek guidance from a defense attorney who knows how these cases work in Polk County. Grajek Criminal Defense Attorney has experience with all types of criminal charges, including aggravated trespassing.
Call us today at (863) 688-4606 to schedule a case consultation with a Lakeland aggravated trespassing attorney.
Why Hire Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys If You’re Arrested for Aggravated Trespassing in Lakeland, FL?
If you or a loved one gets arrested for aggravated trespassing in Lakeland, FL, the stakes are high and so is the stress. This isn’t the moment to leave your future to chance. Our domestic violence lawyer is a respected firm built for moments like these.
When you work with our Lakeland criminal defense lawyer, you get:
- Over 25 years of experience handling criminal defense cases
- More than 100 positive Google reviews from former clients
- Representation by an attorney who has focused his entire career on defending the accused, never prosecuting
Every case is handled personally, thoughtfully, and with a real commitment to your side of the story. Reach out today to speak with a Lakeland aggravated trespassing lawyer.
Overview of Aggravated Trespassing in Florida
Understanding trespassing laws in Florida can be confusing because there isn’t actually a charge called “aggravated trespassing.” Instead, trespassing starts as a lower-level offense but can become a felony if certain facts are present. Here’s how it works.
Trespass on Property (Not a Building or Vehicle)
This applies to open land or property that isn’t covered, like empty lots, fields, or fenced areas. You can be charged if you willfully enter or remain on the property without permission after being told to leave.
Trespass in a Structure or Conveyance
This involves unlawfully and willfully going into or staying on someone else’s property in an actual structure, like a building, home, or vehicle.
When Trespass Becomes a Felony
Trespassing jumps to a third-degree felony—what many people think of as aggravated trespass—if certain factors are met:
- If you’re caught while armed with a dangerous weapon
- If the incident happens at specific protected places, such as:
- Construction sites
- Areas used for agricultural testing or research
- Domestic violence centers
- Agro-chemical facilities
- School property with a firearm
Once trespassing reaches a felony level, the stakes are much higher. You will likely face more jail time and higher fines.
What Are the Penalties for Aggravated Trespassing in Lakeland, Florida?
Trespassing charges in Lakeland, Florida, come with a wide range of possible penalties depending on where the incident happened and the details involved. The law sets out different levels of punishment for each kind of trespass.
Trespass on Property (Not a Building or Vehicle)
This is usually a first-degree misdemeanor. You can face up to one year in jail, 1 year of probation, and a $1,000 fine.
Trespass in a Structure or Conveyance
This is usually charged as a second-degree misdemeanor. You could see up to 60 days in jail, 6 months of probation, and up to $500 in fines.
Felony Trespass
If certain circumstances make your trespass a felony, potential penalties include as much as 5 years in prison, 5 years of probation, and a $5,000 fine. Being charged with a felony depends heavily on the facts in your case.
If you’re facing charges for trespass, make sure you speak with a Lakeland criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
What Defenses Can an Attorney Raise in an Aggravated Trespassing Case?
If you’ve been arrested for trespassing in Florida, there are defenses your attorney can raise if the circumstances of your case allow for it.
Authorization, License, or Invitation
If you had permission to be on the property, either with an invitation, a license, or explicit authorization, you can’t be found guilty of trespassing.
Necessity
Sometimes people enter property out of necessity – like escaping danger or trying to prevent someone from getting seriously hurt. The law does provide an exception for trespass if your actions were truly necessary to preserve your safety or the safety of others.
Lack of Willful Intent
Mistakes happen, and under Florida law, trespassing must be done willfully. If you accidentally wandered onto someone else’s land or genuinely believed you were on your own property, it doesn’t count as a criminal trespass.
Talking honestly and early with an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Lakeland can help you build a defense strategy that considers all aspects of the incident.
Facing an aggravated trespassing charge can feel intimidating, but you are not alone in this. The right legal help can ensure your side of the story is heard and identify issues that may lead to dropped or reduced charges. A dedicated attorney will dig into the details of your case, explain Florida law in plain language, and make sure your defense is strong.
Don’t let confusion or fear dictate your next steps. Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys is here to help guide you. Contact us today to schedule a case consultation with a Lakeland aggravated trespassing attorney.