Brookline Trespassing Defense Attorney

Trespassing may seem minor, but it can carry serious legal and personal consequences in Massachusetts—especially if it's not your first offense or occurred on restricted property. Whether it happened during a protest, on private property, or by accident, you need a skilled defense attorney who understands how these cases work locally.

At Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we represent clients facing trespass and other misdemeanor charges in Brookline District Court. Our legal team knows how to reduce or dismiss these cases before they damage your record and future.

📞 Call (857) 229-2442 now for a free consultation with a top Brookline criminal defense attorney.

Massachusetts Trespassing Laws Explained

Under M.G.L. Chapter 266, Section 120, trespassing is defined as:

• Knowingly entering or remaining on another person's land or property
• After being forbidden to do so by the property owner, occupant, or authorized individual
• Either orally, through posted signage, or written notice

The law applies to public, private, residential, school, or commercial property. For example:

• Refusing to leave a business after being asked
• Entering a college dormitory or school facility without permission
• Crossing into fenced or signed-off private land

Even if you didn't break or damage anything, you can still face criminal charges.

Penalties for Trespassing in Brookline

Trespassing is typically charged as a misdemeanor in Massachusetts, but don't underestimate its impact.

First-offense penalties may include:

• Fines up to $100
• Jail time up to 30 days
• Probation or community service
• Permanent criminal record if not resolved properly

Trespassing on certain types of property—such as schools, government buildings, or utility sites—can trigger enhanced penalties or felony-level charges depending on the circumstances.

Trespassing Scenarios We Commonly Defend

In Brookline, these are some of the most common trespass-related arrests:

• Campus incidents at institutions like Boston University, Newbury College (former campus areas), or nearby medical centers
• Protests or rallies in public spaces where curfews or dispersal orders are enforced
• Entering residential buildings or properties where the person is not invited
• Refusing to leave a store or restaurant after a dispute
• Park closures or entering restricted government zones

Every situation is different—and often there are misunderstandings, mental health concerns, or communication issues at the heart of the incident.

Strong Legal Defenses Against Trespassing Charges

At Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we customize every defense based on the facts. Some defenses that may apply in your case include:

• Lack of intent or knowledge that you weren't allowed on the property
• No signage or no clear verbal warning
• Lawful reason for being on the property (e.g., emergency, confusion, delivery)
• Unlawful arrest or excessive use of force by security or police
• Violation of constitutional rights during arrest or questioning

We aim to resolve these cases with dismissals, pretrial probation, or reduced charges wherever possible.

Why Brookline Clients Choose Our Law Firm

• Local courtroom experience: We regularly represent clients in Brookline District Court
• Personalized attention from attorneys—not case managers
• Decades of combined legal knowledge in criminal defense, misdemeanor defense, and civil rights
• Transparent communication, upfront strategy, and honest advice

Whether it's your first offense or you've had prior trouble with the law, we'll fight for your best outcome.

Brookline District Court & Police Information

Brookline District Court
📍 360 Washington Street, Brookline, MA 02445
Phone: (617) 730-2225

Brookline Police Department
📍 350 Washington Street, Brookline, MA 02445
Phone: (617) 730-2222

Massachusetts Statute of Limitations for Trespassing

The statute of limitations for most misdemeanor trespassing charges is 6 years, but that doesn't mean you should wait. The sooner we begin investigating your case, the stronger your defense will be.

Speak with a Brookline Trespassing Defense Attorney Today

If you're facing trespassing charges in Brookline, don't go it alone. Our firm has helped countless individuals in similar situations avoid conviction, jail time, and permanent records.

📞 Call (857) 229-2442 now for a free consultation.