Tenant Rights After Violent Illegal Self-Help Eviction

Immediate Actions

• Call 911 – report assault, get medical care, document injuries (photos, records).
• Seek protective order – restraining order against landlord.

Legal Remedies

• Civil lawsuit – damages: medical costs, pain/suffering, lost wages, emotional distress, punitive damages.
• Criminal charges – assault, battery, illegal eviction (varies by state).
• Housing authority complaint – code violations, tenant protection laws.

Housing Stability

• Court stay – emergency motion to delay lawful eviction pending resolution.
• Disability accommodations – Fair Housing Act may require extra time/reasonable modification.
• Legal aid – contact local tenants' rights org or legal services (often free).

Document everything: communications, photos, medical bills, witness statements. Statutes of limitations apply—act fast.