Huntington, Massachusetts – For seven years, David and Lori Baillargeon, a couple from the tranquil hilltown of Huntington, found their peace disrupted by ongoing disputes over property boundaries with their neighbor. The Baillargeons, who have lived on their spacious 86-acre property since 1979, watched as their neighbor allegedly encroached upon their land, cutting down trees and disregarding the clearly marked borders.
The situation escalated over the years, leading the couple to file a lawsuit in 2021 when personal attempts to resolve the matter and the involvement of local law enforcement proved futile. Representing themselves in Hampshire County Superior Court, the Baillargeons sought legal recourse against a backdrop of increasing numbers of Americans opting to navigate the complexities of the legal system without professional legal representation. According to the National Center for State Courts, roughly 75% of civil cases today involve at least one party without a lawyer.
During the trial, which unfolded with numerous twists including a last-minute witness change, David Baillargeon called his wife Lori to the stand, leading to a light-hearted exchange that underscored the stress and personal strain the case had placed on them. After a two-day deliberation, the jury ruled in favor of the Baillargeons, with the court awarding them triple damages amounting to $360,451.
Even with the legal victory, the Baillargeons expressed a bittersweet sentiment. David, a former deacon and local business owner, and Lori, his partner in both life and business, described the ordeal as time-consuming and emotionally draining, underscoring that there are “no winners or losers” in such prolonged civil disputes.
Adding to their challenge is the unique geography of their property. Their neighbor Matthew Lennon, had bought a smaller parcel of land for $15,500 which is essentially surrounded by the Baillargeons’ forested land, accessible only via rough dirt roads maintained by the Baillargeons. The encounter that ostensibly led to the lawsuit occurred when the Baillargeons returned home on a wintry day to find Lennon parked on their property.
Despite the court’s decision, the Baillargeons await a ruling on an injunction to finally enforce their no-trespassing signs and remove any encroachments. They also remain prepared for the possibility of an appeal from Lennon.
Reflecting on the broader implications of their case, the Baillargeons advocate for stronger trespass laws in Massachusetts. Currently, the maximum penalty for trespassing is a fine of up to $100 and/or 30 days in prison. They point to states like Maine, where penalties are significantly stricter, as models for reform.
As they look towards a semi-retired life and focus on relocating their antiques business, the Baillargeons hope their case will lead to changes that prevent others from experiencing similar disputes.
The Baillargeons’ case highlights the growing trend of individuals representing themselves in civil courts and the challenges faced by property owners in disputing encroachments under current trespassing laws. This case also underscores the emotional and financial toll endured by those who, feeling powerless against infringements, are forced to resort to the courts for resolutions.
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