This legal term typically refers to a specific statute within a state’s legal code that defines the first-degree offense of criminal trespass. Generally, such statutes describe unlawful entry onto another’s property, often with specific aggravating factors, such as the intent to commit another crime while on the premises. For example, entering a fenced construction site after hours with the intent to steal copper wiring could fall under this legal definition.
Clear legal definitions of property rights and the various levels of trespass provide a framework for maintaining social order and protecting individual and community interests. These statutes allow law enforcement to address unlawful intrusions and protect citizens from potential harm associated with such activity. Historically, laws against trespass have evolved from common law protections of property ownership and possession, reflecting societal values concerning personal space and security.