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FORCIBLE ENTRY AND DETAINER

Categories: Criminal Law

Definition (1910 Edition)

The action of forcible entry and detainer is a summary proceeding to recover possession of premises forcibly or unlawfully detained. The inquiry in such cases does not involve title, but is confined to the actual and peaceable possession of the plaintiff and the unlawful or forcible ouster or detention by defendant; the object of the law being to prevent the disturbance of the public peace by the forcible assertion of a private right.
Source: Black's Law Dictionary, 2nd Edition (1910) — Public Domain. UK commentary and modern updates are original additions. This entry is for educational reference only and does not constitute legal advice.