Child custody issues are some of the most personal and difficult for many parents, and this can sometimes lead to criminal charges. In June 2024, Lancaster County authorities charged a mom with criminal trespass, harassment, and child endangerment following a child custody dispute with the father. The father of the child had previously sent a no-trespass letter to the defendant, but police allege that she went to the residence and an argument took place in front of their three-year-old child. This argument culminated in the defendant allegedly grabbing the arm of her three-year-old daughter and physically struggling with the father.
If you have been accused of criminal trespass, harassment, or other misconduct arising out of a custody dispute in Pennsylvania, call the LLF Law Firm. The LLF Firm has years of experience handling all sorts of charges arising during custody disputes, including allegations of trespass, assault, or other domestic violence allegations. Call the LLF Law Firm at 888-535-3686, or submit your details online, and we will promptly contact you.
Criminal Trespass in PA
Pennsylvania law allows property owners to deny access to other parties by sending or providing notice. If an individual enters the property after receiving a letter or other notice, they are a defiant trespasser. Criminal trespass can be a domestic violence charge when it is against a person with whom the alleged trespasser shares a child. Defiant trespass is a third-degree misdemeanor in most cases.
During a high-conflict custody dispute, one party may give notice that the other is not welcome on their property and insist on custody transfers at another location. In the Lancaster County case, the father of the child had sent a letter to the defendant stating that she was not welcome at the house he owned.
Child Endangerment in PA
In Pennsylvania, Title18, Section 304 provides that a parent or guardian who knowingly endangers the welfare of a child may be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor. Endangering the welfare of a child may be charged as a third-degree felony if it is part of a course of conduct. In the Lancaster County case, the defendant's mom allegedly pulled the child's arm during a physical struggle with the father. Police reported that this physical altercation was recorded by a doorbell camera.
Penalties for Criminal Trespass or Child Endangerment in PA
A defiant trespass may be charged as a first-degree or third-degree misdemeanor. A first-degree misdemeanor is punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. A third-degree misdemeanor is punishable by up to 1 year in prison and a $2,000 fine.
Child endangerment is punishable by a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine if it is a first-degree misdemeanor. If it is charged as a third-degree felony, the maximum penalty rises to seven years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
How the LLF Law Firm Can Help
At the LLF Law Firm, we understand that custody disputes can lead to one party making criminal accusations against the other. These allegations come with serious consequences and can devastate the accused. The LLF Law Firm has experience defending criminal trespass and domestic violence charges, and they know the legal landscape. Call the LLF Law Firm at 888-535-3686, or submit your details online, and we will contact you.
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