Massachusetts Criminal Defense Resource Page

Trespassing may seem like a relatively minor criminal charge, but there can be unfortunate life consequences for anyone who ends up with a permanent criminal record. A criminal conviction will show up on a background check, and  can limit your ability to get many different kinds of jobs. An experienced criminal attorney will help you fight these charges, and give you every opportunity to get the charges dismissed, or beat them at trial. A legal consultation is a wise choice for anyone faced with a criminal arrest and potential prosecution. 

According to Massachusetts General Law, a charge of trespassing has the following penalties:

• up to 30 days in jail

• or, a fine of up to $100, 

• or, both the fine and jail term.

MA Trespassing Defense Strategies

There are a number of defense strategies I have successfully used to beat trespassing charges. It may be possible to remand the case to a show cause hearing, where there is a good chance to get the case thrown out. My tactics depend on the circumstances of the case. If there are other charges involved, it can be more complicated, but there are usually a variety of ways to beat the case, and get the charges dismissed. In cases where you want to work out a deal, it's usually possible to negotiate for a CWOF (Continuance without a finding).

I am in different MA courts every day, defending my clients rights and freedom on charges of criminal trespassing and many other charges. If you've been arrested for trespassing or any another criminal charge in Massachusetts, you need someone who will fight for your rights. Call me at (781)326-2700.

By calling, you have nothing to lose. I'll be happy to talk with you and discuss your case before you decide if you want to hire me. Either way, you'll get some free advice. Defending people like you who are accused of crimes is what I do for a living. Call to set up a free consultation now. Being accused or charged is not the same as being guilty!

Sincerely, 

Elliot Savitz, Attorney at Law
781-326-2700

Massachusetts General Laws, excerpt

CHAPTER 266. CRIMES AGAINST PROPERTY

 Section 120 Entry upon private property after being forbidden as trespass

"Whoever, without right enters or remains in or upon the dwelling house, buildings, boats or improved or enclosed land, wharf, or pier of another, or enters or remains in a school bus, as defined in section 1 of chapter 90, after having been forbidden so to do by the person who has lawful control of said premises, whether directly or by notice posted thereon ... shall be punished by a fine of not more than one hundred dollars or by imprisonment for not more than thirty days or both such fine and imprisonment. "

"This section shall not apply to tenants or occupants of residential premises who, having rightfully entered said premises at the commencement of the tenancy or occupancy, remain therein after such tenancy or occupancy has been or is alleged to have been terminated. The owner or landlord of said premises may recover possession thereof only through appropriate civil proceedings."