Criminal Trespass & Defiant Trespass Defense Lawyers

Serving Chester County, Bucks County, Delaware County & Montgomery County

Protecting Your Rights Against Trespass Charges

Trespass-related charges in Pennsylvania—criminal trespass and defiant trespass—are often misunderstood as “minor offenses,” but a conviction can have serious and lasting consequences. Depending on the facts, these charges can be graded as misdemeanors or felonies, carrying jail time, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record.

At Sheridan Lawyers, we know how quickly a misunderstanding, property dispute, or mistaken identity can result in criminal charges. We fight aggressively to defend clients accused of trespassing in Chester County, Bucks County, Delaware County, and Montgomery County.

Criminal Trespass vs. Defiant Trespass – What’s the Difference?

• Criminal Trespass (18 Pa.C.S. § 3503): Entering or remaining in a building or occupied structure without permission, often by breaking in or bypassing security.

  • Felony offense (F2 or F3)

  • Frequently charged when entry involves force or deception

• Defiant Trespass: Entering or staying on property after being told not to enter, or when the property is clearly marked with “No Trespassing” signs or fenced/barred against entry.

  • Summary or misdemeanor offense (can escalate if warnings were ignored)

    
    

Penalties for Trespass Charges

• Criminal Trespass:

  • Felony 2: Up to 10 years in prison

  • Felony 3: Up to 7 years in prison

• Defiant Trespass:

  • Misdemeanor or summary offense: Can include jail, fines, and probation

• Additional consequences can include:

  • Permanent criminal record

  • Loss of employment opportunities

  • Impact on professional licenses and background checks

How Sheridan Lawyers Defends Trespass Cases

Our defense strategies depend on the facts of your case and may include:

• Proving a lack of intent or that you believed you had permission to enter

• Showing that the property was open to the public or not clearly posted

• Challenging the evidence presented by the prosecution

• Negotiating for dismissal, reduction of charges, or diversionary outcomes such as ARD

Why You Need an Attorney Immediately

Many trespass cases begin as misunderstandings or neighbor disputes. Without proper legal representation, a small issue can escalate into a criminal conviction with long-term effects.

Do not speak with law enforcement or property owners about the incident until you have consulted an attorney.