Mississippi Laws on Illegal Self-Help Evictions

If you're renting a home in Mississippi, you might worry about what happens if your landlord wants you to move out. Sometimes, landlords may try to force tenants out without following legal procedures. These situations, known as "self-help evictions," are largely illegal in Mississippi. Understanding what your rights are and recognizing unlawful landlord actions can help you stay protected.

What Is a Self-Help Eviction?

A self-help eviction is when a landlord tries to remove a tenant without first going through the legal eviction process and getting a court order. This can include actions such as changing the locks, shutting off utilities, removing a tenant’s belongings, or otherwise making it impossible for the tenant to live in the unit.

Mississippi Law: Legal Eviction vs. Self-Help

In Mississippi, landlords are required by law to go through the courts if they want to evict a tenant for reasons such as not paying rent or breaking lease terms. Attempting to bypass this process is not allowed, and tenants have certain protections under the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1]

Examples of Illegal Self-Help Evictions

• Changing the locks on your apartment or house without a court order
• Turning off your electricity, water, or gas to make you move out
• Removing your doors or windows
• Taking out your personal belongings from the rental unit

The Legal Eviction Process in Mississippi

To legally evict a tenant, a landlord must:

• Give proper written notice (such as a three-day notice for unpaid rent or a thirty-day notice for other lease violations)
• File an eviction lawsuit (called "unlawful entry and detainer") at the local Justice Court
• Obtain a court order before removing a tenant

Official Mississippi Forms Used in Eviction

• Three-Day Notice to Quit (for nonpayment of rent): This is a written notice your landlord must give you if you have not paid rent. It tells you that you have three days to pay or move out. There is no official state-wide form, but your landlord must provide the notice in writing (MS Code § 89-8-13).
• Unlawful Entry and Detainer Complaint Form: Used by landlords to file an official eviction case in Justice Court when a tenant does not move out after proper notice. You may view sample forms or get official versions directly from your local Justice Court Clerk.

Renters should always receive an official court summons if their landlord files an eviction lawsuit. Do not ignore any court paperwork—respond if you are notified.

Your Legal Protections Against Illegal Eviction

If your landlord tries a self-help eviction, you have rights under Mississippi law. You may:

• Request to be restored to the property (get back in if you were locked out)
• Potentially sue for damages if the landlord acted unlawfully
• Contact your local Justice Court, police, or a renters' rights organization for help

Never try to confront your landlord physically. Instead, gather evidence (photos, communications, utility shutoff notices) and reach out for help quickly.

Where to Go for Help

Mississippi Justice Court is the official tribunal that handles landlord-tenant disputes and evictions. Find your local court at the Mississippi Justice Court directory.

Relevant State Legislation

• Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – covers all residential leases and evictions

This law outlines your rights and the exact process every landlord must follow before evicting a tenant.

FAQs: Self-Help Eviction in Mississippi

1. Is my landlord allowed to change the locks without a court order?
   No. Changing the locks without a court-ordered eviction is illegal in Mississippi.
2. Can my landlord turn off my utilities to force me out?
   No. Shutting off utilities to make you leave qualifies as an illegal self-help eviction.
3. If I get a notice from my landlord, do I have to move out immediately?
   No. You are entitled to proper notice and a court process before you must move out.
4. Where can I file a complaint if I’m illegally evicted?
   You can file a complaint or seek help at your local Mississippi Justice Court or contact local law enforcement.
5. What forms should I get if my landlord files for eviction?
   You should receive written notice (like a three-day notice) and later a court summons if an official eviction case is started.

Key Takeaways for Mississippi Renters

• Landlords cannot evict tenants without a court process—changing locks or turning off utilities is illegal.
• Mississippi law protects renters from self-help evictions. Know your rights and gather evidence if you’re affected.
• Contact your local Justice Court or a renters’ organization if you need urgent help or legal advice.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Mississippi Justice Court Directory – to find your district for filing complaints or getting legal information
• Mississippi Home Corporation – for renting resources, programs, and tenant assistance
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services – free or low-cost legal aid for renters
• For urgent lockouts or threats, contact your local law enforcement or sheriff’s office

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1. Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Miss. Code Ann. §§ 89-8-1 to 89-8-29)
2. Mississippi Justice Court information
3. Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-13 (Notice requirements)

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