Facing an eviction is overwhelming and puts mental and financial stress on renters. In some cases, a lawyer may be able to help tenants fight back against forced relocation. Here's what renters need to know about the process in the state of Connecticut. 

How Does the Process Work?

To obtain an eviction, landlords must first serve the tenants with a Notice to Quit. The notice needs to be in writing and each tenant must be given one. Upon receipt, renters have three days to vacate the premises. If they choose not to, a Summons and Complaint is issued by the court. 

At this point, tenants can contest the process by filing an Appearance. Along with the Appearance, tenants need to complete an Answer to Complaint in which they reply to each of the landlord's claims.

Failure to do either step allows the owner to obtain an immediate Order to Vacate. Next, the two parties and their lawyers go to trial where a judgment is entered. 

What Are Grounds for Eviction?

The state of Connecticut outlines specific circumstances that legally allow a landlord to file for an eviction. Two common ones are a failure to pay rent and the end of a lease.

Breach of lease, such as having a dog in pet-free building, and failure to follow the implied tenant duties, like not obeying fire codes, can also warrant an eviction. However, the landlord must allow the renter a 15-day grace period to rectify both of these situations before sending a Notice to Quit.

What Are a Tenant's Options?

If a landlord fails to follow the correct eviction laws and procedure, then tenants can fight back. Firstly, the owner or property manager must go through the court to handle the removal process. Secondly, tenants can't be evicted as a result of race or other discriminatory reasons.

Landlords must also follow the correct time frames outlined by the state government. It's important to remember that there's a two-day window to file an Appearance after receiving an official Summons and Complaint. 

If you're facing eviction, learn about your options by reaching out to The Law Offices of Conti, Levy and Salerno, LLC in Torrington, CT. Residents across Litchfield County have turned to the lawyers for over 20 years for legal assistance. From civil litigation to family law, the firm has built a reputation for personalized service. Learn more about their real estate law work online or call (860) 482-4451 to request a free consultation.