Trespassing Charges for Boston College Students? Protect Their Future β Contact an Experienced Defense Attorney Today
For Boston College students, a trespassing charge might seem minor, but it can lead to serious legal and academic consequences. Whether the incident happened on campus, at a party, or during an off-campus dispute, Massachusetts treats trespassing as a criminal offense, and Boston College may initiate a parallel disciplinary investigation.
At Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we represent Boston College students charged with trespassing in Newton District Court and provide expert guidance in BC disciplinary proceedings.
π Call (857) 229-2442 now for a free consultation with a top criminal defense attorney.
What Is Trespassing Under Massachusetts Law?
In Massachusetts, trespassing is defined under General Laws Chapter 266, Section 120. It occurs when someone:
πΉ Knowingly enters or remains on property after being forbidden to do so
πΉ Accesses private homes, dormitories, or any restricted property
Even though trespassing is a misdemeanor, a conviction can lead to:
βοΈ Up to 30 days in jail
π° Fines up to $100
ποΈ A permanent criminal record
Common scenarios among students include:
π Staying at a party after being asked to leave
π Entering dorms or apartments without permission
π¨ Remaining on property after a warning from police or campus security
Can Boston College Discipline Me for Trespassing?
Yes. Boston College's Student Code of Conduct allows the university to investigate and discipline students for:
π Violations of law, even off-campus
ποΈ Disruption or unauthorized use of property
π€ Interpersonal conflicts involving residence halls or events
Disciplinary consequences may include:
π€ Disciplinary probation
ποΈ Loss of on-campus housing
π Required counseling or community service
π« Suspension or expulsion for repeat offenses
Students may also face no-contact orders or restricted access to certain campus buildings.
What to Expect in Newton District Court
A trespassing case typically follows this process:
πΉ Arraignment β Initial court appearance and plea entry
πΉ Pre-trial conference β Negotiations with the prosecutor
πΉ Resolution β Through dismissal, diversion, CWOF (continuance without a finding), or trial
Even minor charges can result in a permanent criminal record, which may impact job applications or internships. Our goal is to resolve cases to protect your future.
Common Situations for BC Students
We often represent students in cases involving:
π Parties where students didn't realize they were trespassing
π Breakups or roommate disputes leading to restricted access
ποΈ On-campus events where ID access was denied or revoked
In many cases, students are unaware they've crossed a legal line or that a prior warning from campus security carried legal weight.
Possible Legal Defenses
We build defenses such as:
π« No clear warning or signage prohibiting entry
π€ Implied or prior consent to be on the property
π€ Lack of awareness of violating a rule or order
π Charges stemming from misunderstandings during emotional or high-stress events
We may also pursue diversion or pre-trial probation to avoid a conviction.
What Should Parents Know?
Will This Go on My Child's Record?
Yesβunless resolved through dismissal or a favorable plea (e.g., CWOF), it may appear on a background check.
Can This Affect Financial Aid or Campus Life?
Possibly. BC can impose internal disciplinary action even if the court case is dismissed.
Does My Child Need a Lawyer?
Yes. An attorney can resolve cases discreetly, protecting both legal and academic records.
Will BC Find Out?
Very likelyβespecially if BC Police or Newton PD were involved. Proactively addressing the situation is better than risking disciplinary action later.
Newton District Court Information
Newton District Court
π 1309 Washington Street, Newton, MA 02465
π (617) 243-6000
Why Boston College Students and Families Choose Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm
π― Extensive experience in Newton District Court
π In-depth knowledge of Boston College conduct procedures
π€ Discreet, strategic, and personalized defense
π€ Clear communication with parents and students throughout the process
Contact Us Today for a Free, Confidential Case Review
Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm
π 572 Washington Street, Suite 21, Wellesley, MA 02482
π (857) 229-2442
We're available 24/7 to discuss urgent student cases. If your BC student has been charged with trespassing, don't waitβcall now for fast, strategic legal guidance.
π¨ URGENT: Facing trespassing charges near Boston College? Call now for a free, confidential consultation.