Can I enter my house if my wife has locked me out of?
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Can I enter my house if my wife has locked me out of?
My wife changed the locks on my house while I was at work. Is it illegal for me to break into the house? Both of us are on the lease.
Asked on February 7, 2018 under Family Law, Virginia
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
Yes, you can get in--she cannot legally lock you out of the marital home--but breaking in is NOT the legal way to get back in. The legal process is go to court and seek a court order requiring her to let you back in, which order can then be enforced by the police or sheriff if necessary. Go to the county court clerk's or customer service office, expain what happened, and they should tell you what you need to file, where, and will likely be able to provide sample or template forms to use.
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