Although criminal trespassing may sound like a harmless offense, the consequences of criminal trespassing can involve jail time and fines. If, however, there were aggravating circumstances, you would be facing even more serious penalties. No matter the degree of your criminal trespassing charge, a conviction will stain your criminal record and cost you your reputation when you apply for jobs, try to rent apartments, or secure a loan. Here’s what you need to know about criminal trespassing laws in Texas.
Criminal Trespassing Laws in Texas
Many people think the concept of criminal trespassing is simple but the definition is much more complex. There are different degrees to criminal trespassing. A class B criminal trespass in Texas is when you go onto another person’s property and remain there; you were aware trespassing was forbidden; and you had notice to leave and failed to remove yourself from the property. A class A criminal trespass happens when all the class B criteria are met, and you also enter the person’s home.
Is Criminal Trespassing a Misdemeanor or a Felony in Texas?
Is criminal trespassing a felony in Texas? It is if you are charged with burglary. A burglary occurs when you enter a private, off-limits property with the intent to steal or assault. Burglary is a felony and the penalties can range from six months to two years in state jail and fines of up to $10,000 or five to life in prison plus a maximum fine of $10,000. Criminal trespassing is most often a misdemeanor, especially if there has been no damage to a person or property.
What is the Difference between Trespassing and Criminal Trespassing?
Knowing the difference between trespassing and criminal trespassing is very important as you make your case. The difference between the two determines your criminal penalties and any possible lawsuits resulting from your offence. Criminal trespassing is when you knowingly enter private property without permission to do so. Civil trespassing is when you violate a property owner’s right to maintain control over their property.
Bail for Criminal Trespassing in Texas
Having a knowledgeable Tarrant bail bondsman on your side is your best chance of getting out of jail if you’ve been charged with criminal trespassing. PCS Bail Bonds can help you if you need to post bail for criminal trespassing. We provide 24-hour bail bonds for a variety of additional charges including drug possession, theft, embezzlement, assault, and more. We post affordable bail bonds in Fort Worth, Texas, and other municipalities in Tarrant County. We process our clients’ requests quickly and efficiently. Our bond agents are always ready for your call, and we can be down to the jail under 30 minutes to help you understand your situation and make the best decisions.
Contact us now by phone at 817-335-1655, at our e-mail, visit in-person, or fill out our bail bond request form.