Connecticut Crimes Explained

Conn. Gen. Stat. 53a‑110a – Simple Trespass

James J. Ruane
James J. Ruane
Founding Partner
With over 50 years of experience in Connecticut courtrooms, Attorney Jim Ruane has been on the side of the defense for decades. He is one of a handful of attorneys that are certified in Criminal Defense in the entire state of Connecticut.

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Understanding being charged with a violation of Conn. Gen. 53a‑110a

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Connecticut General Statutes 53a‑110a explained for non lawyers

  1. What the law prohibits

You commit simple trespass when you knowingly enter or stay on someone’s property—private land, public park, or building—without permission or any lawful right, and you don’t intend to damage property.

2. What the penalties are if someone is convicted

  • This is not a crime, but an infraction (the lowest-level offense).
  • It’s treated like a ticketable offense, similar to a traffic violation.
  • You won’t go to jail or prison—just a fine, and no criminal record.

3. What the state has to prove to convict someone (Elements of the offense)

To issue an infraction, authorities must show:

  1. You entered or stayed on the property.
  2. You knew you didn’t have permission or legal right.
  3. You had no intent to damage anything on that property.

For the actual statute, you can visit Justia which has the actual law on its website.

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