Ejectment is a legal action used to remove a person from property when they have no legal right to remain there. Unlike eviction, which deals with landlord-tenant relationships, ejectment applies when someone occupies a property without a lease or legal interest.
The legal process for ejectment is governed by strict procedural rules under Pennsylvania law. If someone occupies your property without legitimate authority, our Pittsburgh real estate attorney at Stoner Law Offices, LLC will move fast with a strong legal strategy to restore possession and bring a satisfactory resolution to your case.
When an Ejectment Action Becomes Necessary
Some of the most common situations that lead to this legal action include:
- A family member remains in a home after the rightful owner wants possession returned
- Someone occupies a home based on an invalid deed, a quitclaim, or a handshake agreement
- A buyer takes possession before closing and then refuses to leave when the sale falls apart
- A former owner stays in the property after foreclosure or sheriff’s sale
- A person lives in a property that was transferred through probate or estate administration, but will not vacate after distribution
Ejectment protects a property owner’s lawful right to possession. Without obtaining a court order, the rightful owner cannot remove someone by force, change the locks, or shut off utilities. A successful ejectment action ensures that the transition of possession is completed legally and enforceably.
How the Ejectment Process Works in Pittsburgh
Filing the Complaint
The process begins with filing a complaint in the Court of Common Pleas. The complaint must include proof of ownership, such as a deed, inheritance documentation, or recorded transfer.
Serving the Occupant
The occupant must be formally served with the complaint so they have an opportunity to respond. If they refuse or cannot be located, the law provides alternative service procedures. Proper service is crucial for the court to hear the case.
Litigation and Evidence
Both sides may present evidence about title, transfer, occupancy history, and any claims to the property. Disputes sometimes involve forged or improperly executed deeds, title confusion, adverse possession claims, or invalid family agreements.
Court Order and Enforcement
If the court grants possession to the rightful owner, the judge issues an order directing the occupant to vacate and order damages when appropriate. If they do not comply voluntarily, the sheriff can enforce the order and restore possession to the owner.
Complications That Can Arise During Ejectment
Ejectment cases in Pittsburgh usually involve contested issues that require careful legal handling. Some of the common complications include:
- Competing claims of ownership based on a will, handwritten document, or unrecorded deed
- Claims of contribution toward the property that an occupant argues should give them continued rights
- Boundary disputes or uncertainty about whether the property description is accurate
- Arguments that the occupant has obtained rights through adverse possession
- Title problems that require action before the ejectment case can proceed
Our Pittsburgh attorney works to address each issue strategically so the rightful property owner does not lose additional time or money.
Get Legal Help from Our Pittsburgh Ejectment Attorney
Rapid Intervention When Someone Occupies Your Property
If someone is living in your property without legal authority, Stoner Law Offices, LLC will act quickly to protect your rights and prevent further financial loss or disruption.
Establishing the Rightful Legal Possession
We examine the chain of title, review all relevant documents, and determine who holds the superior right to possess the property based on Pennsylvania law.
Building Strong Evidence for Your Case
Our office prepares the documentation and testimony needed to support your ejectment claim, ensuring the court has a clear and accurate view of your legal ownership.
Filing and Managing the Ejectment Action
We handle the full legal process from start to finish, including filing the complaint, serving the occupant properly, and appearing in court to secure a possession order.
Pursuing Financial Compensation for Your Losses
When appropriate, we seek damages for unpaid rent, property damage, loss of rental value, or other financial harm caused by the unauthorized occupant.
Resolving Complex Property Disputes
Family conflicts, foreclosure situations, and contested ownership can complicate ejectment actions. We navigate these challenges strategically to protect your interests.
Returning Possession to You Lawfully and Efficiently
Our focus is on securing a legal and enforceable return of your property as quickly as possible. When court enforcement becomes necessary, we work to ensure the transfer of possession is completed without unnecessary delay.To request your free consultation, call us at (412) 515-0939 or contact us online.
