Facing a Criminal Trespass Charge in Chicago? Andrew M. Weisberg Can Help
In Illinois, a charge of criminal trespass can be far more serious than it initially appears. While many assume it’s a minor offense, Cook County prosecutors are now taking a much stricter approach to these cases, seeking harsher penalties, rejecting plea deals, and pushing for more convictions.
Even for first-time offenders, a conviction can mean jail time, probation, and a permanent criminal record that affects your ability to find work, secure housing, or pursue educational opportunities.
With these tougher prosecution policies, having an aggressive and experienced defense attorney like Andrew M. Weisberg is more crucial than ever. A former Cook County prosecutor, Andrew knows how the state builds these cases and, more importantly, how to fight back.
How Cook County’s New Policies Impact Criminal Trespass Cases
Historically, criminal trespass was often treated as a minor offense, with cases being dismissed or resolved through community service or fines. That is no longer the case.
Under the new Cook County State’s Attorney policies:
- Fewer plea deals are being offered, meaning more defendants must fight their cases in court.
- Judges are less likely to offer probation, leading to harsher sentences even for first-time offenders.
- Prosecutors now push for jail time, especially in cases involving private property, businesses, or public buildings.
- Criminal trespass charges are being upgraded to felonies more frequently, particularly if other aggravating factors are involved.
These policy shifts make it riskier than ever to handle a criminal trespass charge without a strong legal defense. Andrew M. Weisberg is prepared to fight aggressively on your behalf to protect your record, reputation, and future.
Understanding Criminal Trespass in Illinois
Under Illinois law (720 ILCS 5/21-3), criminal trespass occurs when a person knowingly enters or remains on another person’s property without permission. The severity of the charge depends on the type of property and circumstances of the alleged offense.
Some common types of criminal trespass charges include:
- Criminal Trespass to a Residence (720 ILCS 5/19-4) – Entering or remaining in someone’s home without permission. This is usually a Class A misdemeanor but can be elevated to a felony if someone was home at the time.
- Criminal Trespass to a Vehicle (720 ILCS 5/21-2) – Entering or operating another person’s car, truck, or motorcycle without consent. This charge is frequently filed alongside theft or joyriding charges.
- Criminal Trespass to Real Property (720 ILCS 5/21-3) – Unlawfully entering private land or a business, especially when “No Trespassing” signs are posted or you were told to leave but refused.
- Criminal Trespass to State-Supported Land (720 ILCS 5/21-5) – Being on state-owned land without authorization, such as government buildings, parks, or public transit stations.
- Criminal Trespass to a Safe School Zone (720 ILCS 5/21-5.5) – Entering a school property without permission. New prosecution policies have increased penalties for this charge due to concerns about school safety.
- Criminal Trespass to a Place of Public Amusement (720 ILCS 5/21-9) – Refusing to leave a stadium, theater, concert venue, or amusement park after being instructed to do so.
In some cases, criminal trespass can be accompanied by other charges—such as disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, or even burglary—which can escalate penalties significantly.
Penalties for Criminal Trespass in Illinois
Under new prosecution guidelines, penalties for criminal trespass are becoming more severe, especially when linked to businesses, homes, or public buildings.
Potential consequences include:
- Class B Misdemeanor – Up to 6 months in jail and fines of up to $1,500 (for minor trespass cases).
- Class A Misdemeanor – Up to 364 days in jail, fines up to $2,500, and possible probation (if the judge allows).
- Felony Trespass (Class 4 Felony or Higher) – If trespassing involves occupied residences, schools, or repeat offenses, the charge can escalate to a felony, with 1 to 3 years in prison and permanent criminal record implications.
How Andrew M. Weisberg Builds a Strong Defense
With Cook County’s crackdown on trespass cases, it’s more important than ever to fight aggressively to get your charges dismissed or reduced.
Andrew M. Weisberg will:
- Challenge the Evidence – The prosecution must prove that you knowingly trespassed. If there was no intent to commit a crime, the case may not hold up.
- Prove Lack of Notice – If no “No Trespassing” signs were posted or you were not properly warned, charges may be dismissed.
- Negotiate for Reduced Charges – When a dismissal isn’t possible, Andrew will work to downgrade the charge to a lesser offense with minimal penalties.
- Explore Alternative Sentencing – For first-time offenders, he may push for diversion programs that allow charges to be dropped after completion of community service.
- Argue Self-Defense or Misunderstanding – If you had a legitimate reason to be on the property (such as retrieving personal belongings or mistaking the location), Andrew will present evidence to challenge the prosecution’s case.
With prosecutors taking a tougher stance, having an attorney who knows how to fight these cases can make all the difference.
Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg for Your Criminal Trespass Defense?
✔ Former Cook County Prosecutor – Knows how the prosecution builds cases and how to dismantle them.
✔ Aggressive Defense Strategies – Challenges evidence, negotiates reduced charges, and fights for dismissals.
✔ Personalized Representation – You work directly with Andrew, not an assistant or junior lawyer.
✔ Available 24/7 – Criminal charges don’t wait, and neither does he.
Call Andrew M. Weisberg Today for a Free Consultation
With Cook County prosecutors pushing harder than ever to secure convictions for criminal trespass, facing these charges alone is too risky. Don’t take chances with your future—fight back with an experienced defense attorney.
Call (773) 908-9811 for a free consultation
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