Survivor Housing FAQ: What Are My Options if My Partner Kicked Me Out?
The Cook County Sheriff is the only person who can legally force a tenant out. The Sheriff can only act after the landlord has followed all the necessary eviction procedures.
So, if your partner kicked you out of the unit, they can be held accountable for a "lockout."
- Lockouts go beyond simply changing the locks or physically removing you from the unit. It includes tampering with utilities or damaging doors.
- Call the local police department after a lockout occurs. Explain that there was a lockout and request that the police investigate, confirm the lockout, and take the necessary steps to help you get access to the unit.
If returning home feels unsafe or if you need guidance on obtaining a protective order, you can call the Hotline at 1-877-TO END DV. With a protective order, you can request "exclusive possession," which means you are the only person allowed to stay in your apartment. Your safety and well-being matter, and there are resources available to support you through this challenging time.
The above article provides information about legal issues but is not the same as legal advice. Legal advice is when a lawyer applies the law to your specific situation. The information in this article does not replace the advice or representation of a licensed attorney. Law Center for Better Housing cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information in this article and is not responsible for any consequences that may result from using it. You should consult with a licensed attorney to ensure the information in this article is appropriate for your specific situation. Using the information in this article does not create a relationship between Law Center for Better Housing and you as your attorney.