A third-degree criminal trespass charge is no small matter. Since most are considered a “petty offense,” it may give you a false sense that the charges against you aren’t serious. But a criminal trespass conviction can result in jail time and a criminal record easily accessible to future employers, lenders, and landlords.
There’s hope. Regardless of your charges, the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt to get a conviction.
The elements required to prove a criminal trespass charge in Colorado Springs include:
- You knowingly entered or remained on someone else’s property
- You did not have permission or authority to be on the premises
- You trespassed on agricultural land with the intent to commit a felony
A Colorado criminal defense attorney may be able to help you get your charges dismissed or reduced by using the following defense strategies.
- The defendant had permission to be on the property
- The defendant was unaware they were trespassing
- The land was not agricultural
- The prosecution cannot prove a crime occurred beyond a reasonable doubt
A third-degree criminal trespass charge isn’t something you should tackle alone. Consult a qualified defense attorney about your options.