Can my boyfriend kick me out and put my stuff on the street?
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Can my boyfriend kick me out and put my stuff on the street?
I have lived with my boyfriend for about 3 months. He has made the comment that if he ever kicked me out I would come home to find the locks changed and my stuff out on the street. Is he able to do that or do I have any legal “residents” rights in IL? The house and all of the bills are in his name. I do get my mail there and contribute money towards the bills and expenses.
Asked on August 3, 2011 Illinois
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
In a situation such as this, even though you have no formal lease you will be considered to be a tenant. This is because you paid a form of "rent", namely you contributed to the bills (I assume utility, etc). You are a month-to-month tenant therefore your boyfriend must give you a 30 day notice to vacate. If he does and you still do not leave then he will have to file an unlawful detainer action in court (this is an eviction lawsuit).
Note: If beforehand he changes the locks or removes your personal belongings you can sue him for unlawful eviction.
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