LEGAL WARNING
Part II, Criminal Law Act 1977
(As amended by Criminal Justice and Public Order Act, 1994)
TAKE NOTICE
THAT this is NOT a “residential building” within the meaning of section 144, Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 because it was NOT designed or adapted, before the time of our entry, for use as a place to live (ss (3)(b)).
If there are any residential areas in the building these are NOT being used for living in by the current occupiers.
THAT it was clearly the intention of Parliament to excludepublic houses from the legislation. This was made clear by the consultation document which stated on page 38 that “the Government will not seek to criminalise squatting in non-residential buildings, such as disused factories, warehouses or pubs”
THAT the provisions of section 144 are therefore NOT APPLICABLE to this building or to our occupation of it.
THAT we live in this property, it is our home and we intend to stay here.
THAT at all times there is at least one person in this property.
THAT any entry or attempt to enter into these premises without our permission is therefore a criminal offence as any one of us who is in physical possession is opposed to such entry without our permission.
THAT if you attempt to enter by violence or by threatening violence we will prosecute you. You may receive a sentence of up to six months’ imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £5,000.
THAT if you want to get us out you will have to issue a claim for possession in the County Court or in the High Court.
The Occupiers
N.B. Signing this Legal Warning is optional. It is equally valid whether or not it is signed.