Eviction
by: Developed from materials provided by the UW Students' Attorney Office
How Does It Work?
Eviction in Wyoming is called "Forcible Entry and Detainer."
If you are three days late in paying rent the landlord can try to throw you out. In order to throw you out he must do certain things:
- He must give you written notice to leave. (This is often called a Notice to Quit). The notice must give you at least three days to move although it can give you more.
- This notice can be given to you in person, left at your home or office or taped to your front door.
- The sheriff does not have to serve the notice. If you pay the rent before three days (or whatever time you've been given) is up, you will be able to stay.
If you have not left within three days (or the time given), and have not paid the rent in this time, the landlord can ask the courts to evict you. If this happens,
- The sheriff, or somebody, will serve you with papers called a "summons and complaint." (These papers tell you the date of the court hearing).
- At the hearing you get to tell the judge your side of the story. (If you think your landlord is wrong, you can talk to a lawyer).
- You or your lawyer will need to file a written answer at the Circuit Court before your court date.
- If you don't file the answer you will not be able to tell your side to the judge. You will only be allowed to answer the landlord's questions.
- If your landlord is evicting you because you didn't pay rent, it will help if you can catch up on all rent payments before your court date.
What happens if I lose my eviction case?
If the judge rules against you, the sheriff can remove your property that day. A judge might give you a bit of time (usually 10 days), but you might have to move that day.
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