Individuals invest in real estate for a number of reasons. These can include the hope that rental properties will serve as a retirement nest egg, a desire to build up rental income, and more. Unfortunately, rental units can go from being an asset to being a liability if the tenant fails to live up to their end of the bargain. A tenant who fails to pay rent, who damages the property, or who commits crimes, can lead to you covering a mortgage, and paying for repairs, with no rent coming in. Fortunately, Illinois law recognizes that many landlords are individuals without unlimited resources. This is why our state recognizes that property owners should get their day in Court. An experienced attorney can help you to reclaim your property. I am able to assist with such matters and my office prides itself on providing quality service. Contact us online or by telephone today to speak with a Peoria eviction lawyer.
Eviction attorney assisting Peoria landlords with reclaiming their property due to non-payment of rent or other lease violations
Illinois allows a landlord to evict a tenant for multiple reasons. The most common causes of eviction in our state include the non-payment of rent, a tenant staying past the end of their lease, other lease violations, or the commission of crimes by the tenant. In each of these instances, the landlord can commence an eviction action. Depending on the nature of the violation, it can typically take between two and five weeks to complete the process.
The first step in evicting a tenant is to serve them what is often referred to as a “Notice to Quit.” This is a document in which the landlord informs the tenant that they are being asked to leave the property. The length of time given to the tenant will depend on the nature of their lease violation. For nonpayment of rent, the tenant will be served with a Five-Day notice to Quit. Other violations can require a different notice. Minor lease violations, for example, can require a ten-day Notice while a tenant who has overstayed their lease must typically be given a thirty-day notice. These notices can be served via personal service, by certified mail (with a return receipt), or by posting it on the property if the tenant cannot be served.
If the tenant does not vacate the property, then the next step for the landlord is to file an eviction action with the Circuit Court. The filing fee for an eviction case will vary by County. A Summons and Complaint will be served upon the tenant by the Sheriff, a process server, or anyone who is not a minor. If the tenant cannot be served then, again, a copy of the relevant documents may be posted on the property. A hearing will be scheduled. If the tenant does not appear at the hearing, then the Court will typically enter a default judgment on behalf of the landlord. If the Judge sees a reason to set the matter over for hearing, then a subsequent Court date will be scheduled. After the landlord is granted an eviction, the Court will enter an Order granting the property back to the landlord. Depending on the jurisdiction, the tenant may be given a short period of time to remove their belongings before the sheriff forcibly removes them. While this process may sound straightforward, it can quickly become complicated. It is strongly suggested that you retain a qualified attorney to assist you.
I am a Peoria lawyer providing service to landlords who need to reclaim their property. I will help to ensure that the tenant is timely served with a Notice to Quit or Vacate the property. I will also work to ensure that your case is timely filed with the Court and that there are no unnecessary delays. My office understands that time is of the essence when it comes to reclaiming your property as the passage of time is costing you money. We will make ourselves available to answer any questions you have and will protect your interests. Contact us online or by telephone today.
Peoria lawyers providing quality service to landlords
My firm understands that your case must move along quickly. We also understand that lawyers frequently fail at keeping their clients up to date as to the status of a case. We strive to be different in this regard. We will make sure that you receive copies of the relevant court documents and that you are informed of the hearing date. We will also make sure that you know what to expect from the process and that your questions are answered along the way. Our attorneys are here to assist you.
In addition to Peoria, I also serve the counties of Fulton, Knox, LaSalle, Marshall, Mason, McLean, Putnam, Rock Island, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford.