How to Avoid Criminal Trespassing Charges in Maricopa County

It’s not always easy to tell if you’re trespassing in Maricopa County. For instance, if you hunt or hike, you probably often come upon areas in which it’s not obvious who owns the land or if you’re allowed to be there. For the most part, a first-time trespasser or lost hiker is not likely to receive formal criminal trespassing charges. However, it is possible. If you hunt, hike, walk your dog, or otherwise find yourself wandering on land you don’t own, take a few tips on avoiding criminal trespassing from your Phoenix criminal defense lawyers:

• Ask permission: If possible, contact the owner of the land for permission before you enter the property. It could save both of you time and keep you out of legal trouble.
• Don’t jump the fence: If you notice that an area is fenced off or gated, don’t enter it. This is generally a good sign that the owner doesn’t want you to be there.
• Obey posted signs: Landowners should post “No Trespassing” signs along the perimeter of their property if they want to keep trespassers out. Check the area for these signs or orange paint, which Arizona law allows to be used along with the signs, and obey them when present.

Arizona trespassing charges range from misdemeanors to felonies, and they could have an impact on your future. Take trespassing charges seriously, and contact a Phoenix criminal defense lawyer today at 1-888-929-5292 to schedule a FREE legal consultation. In the meantime, we would like for you to have a copy of our FREE and helpful book, Arizona Criminal Law – What You Must Know.