Facing Eviction in Virginia
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Getting a letter from your landlord threatening eviction is scary. But it does not mean you have to leave right away. Your landlord must follow specific legal steps before they can force you out of your home. You have options at every stage.
This page explains the basics and points you to more detail for your situation.
Can my landlord force me to leave?
Without an order from the court, your landlord cannot change the locks, shut off your utilities, or remove your belongings to force you out. Your landlord has to follow specific rules. They must go to court and get a judge to issue the eviction order. Only the sheriff can physically evict you, and only after the court process is complete.
Read more: If Your Landlord Is Locking You Out or Shutting Off Utilities
How does eviction work?
Before your landlord can go to court, they must give you written notice. The type of notice and how long you have depends on why they want you to leave. After that, there is a court process that gives you a chance to respond.
Read more: How Eviction Works in Virginia
What are my options if my landlord takes me to court?
Even after an eviction court case is filed, you may be able to fight to stay in your home. You can pay what you owe before your court date, fight the case in court, or appeal if you lose in court.
Read more: Going to Court: What to Expect and How to Prepare
How does eviction work for subsidized housing, a motel, or a mobile home?
If you live in subsidized housing, a mobile home park, or a hotel or motel, some eviction rules are different.
Read more: Subsidized Housing, Hotels/Motel, And Foreclosure Property Evictions
Get help as early as possible
The earlier you get legal advice, the better chance you have to avoid eviction. Free help is available.
Where can I get free or low-cost help?
- Look for free legal aid: Visit virginialawhelp.org/get-legal-help or call 866-LEGLAID (866-534-5243).
- Find more information specific to your situation: fightmyeviction.org/fight-my-eviction.
- Ask a lawyer online for free: virginia.freelegalanswers.org.
- Contact the Virginia Lawyer Referral Service at 800-552-7977 and pay $35 for a half-hour consultation with an attorney.
If you need emergency help paying rent, contact your local Department of Social Services or call 211 to find resources in your area.
Things to remember
- You do not have to move just because your landlord tells you to.
- Your landlord must give you written notice before going to court.
- You have the right to go to court and tell your side.
- Even after a judgment, you may have one last chance to pay and stay.
- You might qualify for free legal help. Visit virginialawhelp.org/get-legal-help or call 866-LEGLAID.