Definition of Third Degree Criminal Trespass
The law defines Third Degree Criminal Trespass – C.R.S. 18-4-504 – as:
Sentence for Third Degree Criminal Trespass
Degree Criminal Trespass can be charged and sentenced in three different ways:
- a petty offense
- a Class 3 misdemeanor
- a Class 5 felony
Petty Offense Third Degree Criminal Trespassing
Third Degree Criminal Trespass is considered a Class 1 petty offense holding a maximum sentence of 6 months in county jail and a $500 fine.
Misdemeanor Third Degree Criminal Trespass
However, the charge can be worsened to a Class 3 misdemeanor if the county has designated the land as agricultural land. You may find yourself being charged and potentially facing up to 6 months in jail in Fort Collins, Colorado at the Larimer County jail, or in the neighboring Grand, or Boulder County jails. A $750 fine could also accompany this jail time.
Felony Third Degree Criminal Trespass
Third Degree Criminal Trespassing is considered a Class 5 felony if the land is agricultural and the person enters the property in order to commit another felony. This felony charge can result in a maximum sentence of 3 years in the Department of Corrections (DOC) and up to $100,000 fine.
While serving jail or prison time may be what the District Attorney wants, having a knowledgeable and experienced attorney will increase your chances of getting a probation sentence, or even getting your case dismissed.
Examples of Trespassing Cases in Larimer County
Often, theThird Degree Criminal Trespassing cases that we handle are circumstances where our client is being accused of refusing to leave the premises of another. Many times loitering, alcohol, or an ex-relationship is a major contributing factor. Whether the land is considered agricultural is important information for your lawyer to know. If you are on someone else’s property and are asked or told to leave, it is Colorado law that you depart from the house, apartment or condo immediately. Consequences for trespassing can be prison or jail time, so it is imperative that you have a trusted criminal defense lawyer on your case.
Why You Need a Lawyer for Your Fort Collins Trespassing Cases
Facing prison or jail time for your Trespassing charge could seriously disrupt your life and affect your future. With over 20 years of experience defending clients accused of Third Degree Criminal Trespass in the Fort Collins area, we have the expertise and knowledge to be your advocate in court to get the best outcome in your criminal case. Third Degree Criminal Trespass charges can result in serious consequences – you need to take steps to protect your future by contacting one of our best criminal defense lawyers. Put our team for work for you.