Forcible Entry and Detainer

Forcible Entry and Detainer

A forcible entry occurs if the landlord violently breaks into the rental property or removes the tenant in possession by violence or threats. A forcible detainer occurs if a person (trespasser, tenant, or landlord) unlawfully holds possession of any real property through violence or threats, or unlawfully enters a rental unit at nighttime or during the occupant’s absence and refuses to surrender for five days after a demand to return possession. The wronged party can sue to be restored possession and/or for damages.