Trespassing Lawyer in Lancaster, PA

Trespassing cases typically involve misunderstandings, disputed property boundaries, unclear signage, or questions about whether someone had permission to enter. If you’ve been accused of trespassing, the Law Office of Stephen W. Grosh is at your service. Pennsylvania trespassing offenses range from summary violations to felony-level charges, making early legal guidance vital.

Drawing on more than 15 years of criminal defense experience, our defense lawyer in Lancaster, PA, Stephen W. Grosh, can help challenge the evidence, determine whether the property owner provided legally sufficient notice, seek reduced charges, and work toward dismissal when the facts of your case support it.

What Are The Types of Trespassing Charges in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania’s trespassing laws are found primarily in 18 Pa.C.S. § 3503.

Criminal Trespass of a Building or Occupied Structure

This is often the most serious trespassing offense. Prosecutors may file criminal trespass charges when someone allegedly enters, gains access to, or remains in a building or occupied structure without permission. Examples include:

• Entering a closed commercial building in Downtown Lancaster.
• Going into a vacant structure without authorization.
• Remaining inside a building after permission has been revoked.

Criminal trespass involving a building or occupied structure may be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances. More serious felony charges can carry multiple years of incarceration, while lower-graded misdemeanor offenses may expose a defendant to up to two years in jail.

Defiant Trespass

Defiant trespass occurs when someone enters or remains on a property after receiving notice that entry is prohibited. Notice may be provided through posted signs, fencing or barriers, direct verbal warnings, or written no-trespass notices. Common examples are:

• Returning to a business after being formally banned.
• Remaining in a store after being told to leave.
• Entering private property despite posted warning signs.

Defiant trespass is commonly charged as a summary offense or misdemeanor, with potential penalties including fines, probation, and up to one year in jail for higher-grade misdemeanor offenses.

Simple Trespasser

Pennsylvania also recognizes the offense of simple trespass under 18 Pa.C.S. § 3503(b.1). A person may face this charge if they enter or remain on property for the purpose of threatening or terrorizing the owner or occupant, starting or causing a fire, or damaging the property. Examples can include:

• Entering private property intending to vandalize a building.
• Going onto someone’s property to intimidate them.
• Entering land with the intent to damage structures or equipment.

Simple trespass is generally charged as a summary offense, although grading can vary based on the allegations and related conduct. Even when jail exposure is limited, a conviction can still create a criminal record and collateral consequences.

Agricultural Trespass

A person may be charged with agricultural trespass when they unlawfully enter posted farmland, fenced agricultural property, or certain agricultural production areas. Examples include:

• Walking onto posted farmland for recreation.
• Entering a farm field despite warning signs.
• Crossing fenced agricultural property without permission.

Agricultural trespass charges may be filed as misdemeanors, potentially exposing you to fines and up to one year in jail, depending on the circumstances and grading.

What Our Trespassing Attorney in Lancaster, PA, Can Do For You

Stephen W. Grosh, our Lancaster, PA, trespassing lawyer, can help you by:

• Reviewing police reports and witness statements.
• Determining whether you were actually given proper notice.
• Investigating whether signs, fences, or warnings complied with legal requirements.
• Challenging allegations that you knowingly remained on the property.
• Presenting evidence that you had permission to enter.
• Negotiating for lesser charges or pursuing dismissal, whichever is appropriate.
• Representing you in hearings, negotiations, and trial proceedings.

Consult With Our Trespassing Lawyer in Lancaster, PA

Learn how our Lancaster, PA, trespassing attorney can assist you by calling the Law Office of Stephen W. Grosh at 717-208-4599 or emailing us for your confidential consultation.