Criminal Trespass

According to criminal lawyer Sean Logue, criminal trespass involves unlawfully entering or staying on someone else’s property or making threats while on their premises. Pennsylvania’s criminal trespass laws are comprehensive, which can often result in misunderstandings that lead to criminal charges. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you understand the different aspects of criminal trespass, especially if you’re dealing with such allegations in Mercer County.

Categories of Criminal Trespass

The specific trespass charge in Mercer County depends on the type of trespassing allegedly committed. Pennsylvania law defines four main categories of trespassing, each with its own unique characteristics:

Simple Trespass

This type of offense occurs when a person remains on a property intending to:

• Start a fire on the property
• Make threats or engage in actions targeted at the property owner
• Vandalize, deface, or damage property

Agricultural Trespass

Agricultural trespass happens when someone enters land used for farming, which is clearly marked or enclosed, and ignores orders to leave given by the owner or an authority figure.

Defiant Trespass

Defiant trespassing refers to situations where individuals stay on a property despite being informed by various means that their presence is unwelcome:

• Posted “No Trespassing” signs
• Verbal warnings from someone on the property
• Physical barriers like fences or other enclosures
• Official orders to leave issued by school officials, law enforcement, or government personnel

Trespassing into a Building

This charge applies when someone knowingly enters a building without permission. This could happen through sneaky tactics, deception, or simply hiding inside the premises.

If you’ve been charged with criminal trespass in Mercer County, it’s important to consult an experienced Mercer DUI attorney.

Consequences of Criminal Trespass

Trespassing charges carry consequences that vary depending on the specific offense and circumstances surrounding the act. If you’re facing such allegations in Mercer County, a Mercer DUI attorney can guide you through the complexities of these charges and their potential penalties.

Simple Trespass Penalties

For those convicted of simple trespass, fines can go up to $300, with the possibility of jail time lasting as long as 90 days.

Defiant Trespass Penalties

Defiant trespassing penalties vary based on the misdemeanor classification. Fines can range as high as $10,000, and prison sentences may extend up to 5 years.

Felony Trespass Penalties

Penalties for trespassing stemming from felony charges are severe. Convictions can lead to fines reaching $25,000 and up to 10 years of incarceration.

Agricultural Trespassing Penalties

Like other forms of trespassing, agricultural trespass has penalties pegged to the level of misdemeanor. Fines range from $250 to $5,000, with jail terms potentially lasting up to 2 years.

Examples of Criminal Trespass in Mercer County

There are various scenarios where a criminal trespass charge might arise. Common examples include:

• Forcing entry into a home without the owner’s permission
• Visiting someone without prior notice and refusing to leave
• Remaining on someone’s property after being asked to leave multiple times
• Threatening harm while on someone else’s property

Defending Against Criminal Trespass Charges

Defending against trespass charges often hinges on proving the lack of intent to cause harm or the absence of any deliberate violation of property rights. However, in Mercer County, these defenses can become complex, especially if the case is tied to domestic violence allegations or involves a protective order like a Protection From Abuse (PFA).

The prosecutor bears the burden of proving that the accused had the intent to trespass or cause harm. Yet, the consequences of a conviction can spill over into many areas of life, impacting custody battles, divorce proceedings, job opportunities, and even educational prospects. Challenging these charges effectively requires legal expertise. If you’re facing trespass allegations in Mercer County, we strongly recommend contacting a Mercer criminal lawyer.

Why Seek Legal Help?

Given the stakes involved, securing the assistance of an experienced attorney like Sean Logue is vital. A knowledgeable Mercer criminal lawyer can ensure your rights are defended and offer strategic guidance in navigating the legal system.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you’ve been charged with criminal trespass in Mercer County, call Logue Law Group at (844) PITT-DUI or contact us online today. Benefit from professional assistance tailored to protect your property rights, reputation, and future opportunities.