Cobb County Criminal Trespass Lawyer

If you’re in your teens or twenties and have been charged with criminal trespass in Cobb County, our criminal defense legal team is here to help you protect your record and future.

At Ghanouni Teen & Young Adult Defense Firm, we work with young people facing criminal charges and focus on achieving results that allow them to move forward without unnecessary setbacks.

Criminal Trespass Charges in Cobb County, Georgia

Under O.C.G.A. § 16-7-21, criminal trespass occurs when someone:

• Enters another person’s property without permission
• Stays on someone’s property after being told to leave
• Causes property damage under $500
• Blocks, interferes with, or disrupts someone else’s use of their property

Many people charged with criminal trespass did not intend to break the law. Maybe you thought you were allowed to be somewhere, didn’t hear someone telling you to leave, or got caught in a misunderstanding. These situations happen, but how you respond next matters.

Potential Consequences of a Criminal Trespass Charge

While criminal trespass is a misdemeanor in Georgia, it can still have serious consequences. Many of our clients are more concerned about their record and future opportunities than fines or short-term penalties. That’s where we come in—focusing on solutions that protect your goals and your future.

What Happens If You’re Convicted?

A criminal trespass conviction in Cobb County can lead to:

• A permanent criminal record – Even a misdemeanor can appear on background checks, affecting job prospects, housing, and professional opportunities.
• Probation or community service – The court may impose supervised or unsupervised probation, along with required service hours.
• Potential jail time – While rare, Georgia law allows for up to 12 months in jail for a criminal trespass conviction.
• Impact on educational opportunities – College applications, scholarships, and even financial aid may be affected.
• License and certification issues – Certain professions have strict background check policies that could create challenges.

How Criminal Trespass Charges Affect People in Their Teens and Twenties

For many of our clients, the biggest concern isn’t fines—it’s the impact on their future. A criminal trespass charge, even without a conviction, can create problems when applying for jobs, internships, professional licenses, or housing.

That’s why our focus is on protecting your record and finding the best possible resolution.

Defenses Against Criminal Trespass Charges in Cobb County

Criminal trespass cases aren’t always as clear-cut as they seem. Property disputes, misunderstandings, and miscommunications often play a role.

1. Lack of Intent

• Did you accidentally enter someone’s property?
• Were you unaware that you weren’t allowed there?
• Did you leave immediately when asked?

Georgia law requires that you knowingly and intentionally trespassed—proving that you had no intent can be a strong defense.

2. No Prior Notice

• Were you never told to leave?
• Was there no sign or verbal warning?
• Did you believe you had permission?

Many trespass cases fall apart when proper notice was never given. If the owner or occupant didn’t clearly tell you that entry was prohibited, the charge may not hold up in court.

3. False Allegations or Misidentification

• Was there a mistake in identifying you?
• Did someone falsely accuse you?
• Was this a personal dispute turned legal?

If you were wrongfully accused or if the evidence is weak, we’ll fight to get your case dismissed.

4. Property Rights Disputes

• Did you believe you had a right to be there?
• Was this your residence, a family property, or a shared space?

Sometimes, trespassing charges arise from disputes over rental agreements, family-owned property, or shared spaces. In many cases, people don’t even realize they’re trespassing.

How Our Cobb County Criminal Defense Team Can Help

We take a goal-oriented approach to defending people in their teens and twenties. From the moment you contact us, we take immediate action to:

1. Review the Evidence

• Were you properly notified?
• Was there surveillance footage, police reports, or witness statements?
• Does the prosecution have enough to prove intent?

2. Explore Alternatives to Conviction

Our goal is to keep this off your record. Depending on the circumstances, we may be able to:

• Get the charges dismissed
• Negotiate a reduced charge
• Work out an alternative resolution

3. Develop a Defense Strategy

If the case goes to trial, we fight aggressively to challenge the evidence and raise reasonable doubt.

What Are Your Options If You’ve Been Charged?

Pre-Trial Resolutions

Depending on the case, diversion programs or alternative sentencing may be available. Our goal is always to minimize impact—whether that means negotiating a dismissal, reducing the charge, or finding a resolution that protects your future.

Can Criminal Trespass Charges Be Expunged in Georgia?

In Georgia, a criminal record can only be restricted in certain situations. If your case is dismissed or resolved without a conviction, you may be eligible for record restriction. If convicted, however, the charge will likely remain on your record. That’s why fighting the charge upfront is critical.

Why Choose Our Firm for Your Criminal Trespass Case?

We Focus on People in Their Teens and Twenties

We don’t just handle criminal cases—we focus on protecting the futures of young people.

We Prioritize Your Record and Future

Our clients aren’t worried about fines—they care about what happens next. We get it and focus on solutions that help you move forward.

We Take a Selective Approach

We don’t take every case. Our consultation process helps determine if we’re the right fit to get you the best outcome.

We Provide a Strategic Defense, Not Just Legal Advice

Every case is different, and we take the time to listen, understand your goals, and develop a legal strategy tailored to you.

What to Do Next

If you’ve been charged with criminal trespass in Cobb County, time is critical. The sooner you take action, the more options you’ll have.

• Don’t talk to law enforcement without legal guidance
• Gather any evidence (texts, photos, witness statements)
• Avoid social media discussions about the case
• Schedule a consultation with our legal team

We’re here to help you move past this with as little impact as possible.

Get Tailored Defense for Criminal Trespass Charges in Cobb County

A criminal trespass charge does not have to define your future. Whether it’s a misunderstanding, a false accusation, or a mistake, you deserve a defense that puts your future first.

Our team is committed to helping young people protect their records, careers, and opportunities.

Take the next step—contact our office today.