Intentional physical invasion of another's real property without permission. Requires only intent to enter the land, not intent to trespass or knowledge that entry is wrongful. Mistake about ownership or permission is no defense. Any unauthorized physical entry, however brief or harmless, constitutes trespass. Plaintiff need not prove actual damages - nominal damages available for invasion of property rights alone.
Related terms
Trespass to Chattels — Intentional interference with plaintiff's possessory interest in personal property causing harm. Less serious than conversion. Requires: (1) intent…
Conversion — Intentional exercise of dominion or control over plaintiff's personal property that so seriously interferes with plaintiff's right of…
Necessity — Privilege to commit what would otherwise be a tort when reasonably necessary to prevent greater harm. Public necessity:…
Consent — Complete defense to intentional torts when plaintiff expressly or impliedly manifests willingness for defendant's conduct. May be express…
Intent Requirement — For intentional torts, defendant must intend the act and resulting contact, confinement, or invasion - not necessarily the…
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