Legal Definitions - dispossess proceeding

Definition: A dispossess proceeding is a legal process used by a landlord to remove a tenant who has defaulted on their rent payments and regain possession of the property. This is also known as a forcible entry and detainer.

Example: If a tenant fails to pay rent for several months, the landlord may initiate a dispossess proceeding to evict the tenant and regain possession of the property. The landlord must follow the legal process and provide notice to the tenant before taking any action.

Explanation: This example illustrates how a dispossess proceeding is used by a landlord to remove a tenant who has defaulted on their rent payments. The landlord must follow the legal process and provide notice to the tenant before taking any action. This ensures that the tenant has a chance to respond and defend themselves before being evicted from the property.