WHAT ARE THE LEGAL CONSEQUENCES OF TRESPASSING IN CALIFORNIA

Many think that if someone damages another’s property after breaking in, then only it is considered criminal activity, or else all is fine. But that is not true; when a person invades someone’s property without their permission, it is called trespassing. Every state in America has its legal definition of trespassing and laws made accordingly to check the same. In California, Penal code sections 601 and 602 focuses on defining what constitutes trespassing and the charges one might face when caught trespassing. Continue reading this article to learn more about the crime of trespassing in California. 

What Defines Trespassing: Many don’t have a clear idea about what constitutes trespassing, so they might get shocked when faced with such criminal charges. They do not know what to do or how to defend themselves because they were unaware of the crime itself. Victims should recognize the following conditions that fall under trespassing crime. 

• One does not leave private property after being asked. 
• One enters a property without permission. 
• Someone enters a property intending to harm any individual. 
• Someone purposefully interferes with the other’s business. For example, when one is asked to leave a store for creating a nuisance and driving away customers, he must comply; otherwise, the act will be categorized as trespassing. 
• One enjoys a stay at the hotel or motel and refuses to pay. 

Penalties and Charges: According to the intention and the actual criminal activity, the charges are set against one. First-time trespassing is often seen as a misdemeanor, whereas if it is a recurrent event, it might be considered a felony. For such misdemeanor, the court may issue community service and fines up to $1000. 

• Aggravated trespassing falls under Penal code 601 and the charges are graver than mere community services. If one threatens a person of physically hurting and then shows up at his house within 30 days of making the initial threat to follow through with his plans, it falls under the category of aggravated trespassing. 
• The credible threat can be expressed verbally, in writing, or via e-communication such as texts, email, and other forms. This crime somehow correlates itself with stalking, and therefore, can lead to longer and harsher punishments. 

Many a time, people find themselves on the wrong side of the law. There might be some misunderstanding, and one is put behind bars for trespassing. In such a situation, the important thing is to be calm and collected. In California, various reputed law firms help a defendant out by posting the bail sum. For instance, reliable Orange County bail bonds services help the defendant get back to their regular life by providing them with a fast bail. You will have to pay ten percent of the whole bail amount as a fee, and you are good to go. 

Though getting bail for a trespassing charge is not hard, it is necessary to remember that breaking into someone else’s property is a crime. Having a criminal record can hinder academic and professional careers. Therefore, if you find yourself or your loved ones in a legal mess, be sure to opt for bail and hire professional help. Once proven innocent, the charges can be expunged later.