Entering or staying in a building intentionally where you are not supposed to be and disobeying signs and/or disobeying direct orders to leave is considered defiant trespass under Pennsylvania law.
An example of defiant trespass would be entering the grounds of a country home surrounded by “do not trespass” signs and refusing to leave when the owner shouts at you to do so.
If you have been charged with defiant trespass, it’s important to have experienced counsel on your side to defend your rights and freedoms. Contact us to speak with one of our Pittsburgh defiant trespass lawyers at (412) 281-2146.
What is Defiant Trespass?
Under Pennsylvania law, a defiant trespasser is someone who, knowing they are not licensed or privileged to do so, enters or remains in any place where they are given notice against trespass by communication, postings, fencing or other enclosures designed to keep out intruders.
If you defy an order to leave that is personally communicated to you by the owner of the premises or another authorized person, you can be guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree. Otherwise, it is a summary offense.
Refusing to leave a school or its grounds after being told to do so by a school employee or law enforcement officer is a misdemeanor of the first degree. Call to speak to a Pittsburgh property crime lawyer today.
Questions? Contact us.
A defiant trespass conviction can leave you with a permanent criminal record and potential jail time. Let us help. Contact our Pittsburgh criminal attorneys for a free, confidential consultation.
