Trespassing cases often arise from misunderstandings, poor signage, or heated moments, yet Florida treats them seriously—especially when combined with other allegations.
Under Florida Statute § 810.08, intent and notice are key.
If you or a loved one has gotten arrested for trespassing in Palm Beach, Broward, Dade or Martin County, Florida, an experienced defense attorney can help.
Below, we break down what trespassing in Florida actually means, penalties, common defense strategies and why hiring a competant lawyer can make all the difference.
Table of Contents
What is Trespassing Under Florida Law?
In the state of Florida, trespassing occurs when a person:
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Enters or remains on property without authorization
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Refuses to leave after being warned
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Returns after being told not to come back
Common scenarios include:
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Apartment complexes
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Retail stores
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Bars or clubs
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Private events
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College housing
Common Penalities for Trespassing in Palm Beach, Broward, Dade or Martin County
Trespassing in Palm Beach, Broward, Dade or Martin County, can be charged as the following misdemeanors in Florida:
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Second-degree misdemeanor (most cases)
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First-degree misdemeanor if aggravated
Penalties may include:
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Jail time
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Fines
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Probation
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Permanent criminal record
Defenses to Trespassing Charges
Trespassing cases often hinge on proof, including:
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Was proper notice given?
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Was signage visible and compliant?
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Did the person have implied permission?
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Was the warning lawful?
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Was the arrest retaliatory or escalated?
If notice was improper, the case may fail.
Why Trespassing Charges Escalate Quickly
Trespass arrests are often paired with:
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Resisting without violence
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Alcohol-related charges, including possession of alcohol by a minor.
Early legal intervention can stop a minor incident from becoming a lasting problem.
Contact Our Criminal Lawyer if You've been Charged With Trespassing in Palm Beach, Broward, Dade or Martin County
If you were arrested for trespassing in Palm Beach, Broward, Dade or Martin County, do not plead guilty just to “get it over with.”
Contact us online or call our office today for a confidential consultation with our experienced and proven criminal defense attorney, Matthew Konecky.
