RECIEVED A NOTICE TO QUIT? YOU DO NOT HAVE TO MOVE OUT TODAY

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A Notice to Quit is a warning, not a court order. In Connecticut, receiving this paper does not mean the Marshal is coming tomorrow. It is simply the "Opening Act" of a legal process that can take weeks or even months.

DO NOT IGNORE THIS PAPER. While you don't have to move out by the date on the notice, you do need to prepare. If you ignore the next set of papers (the Summons), you could lose your right to stay by "Default."

• The Notice to Quit: Usually gives you 3 days (for non-payment) or 15 days (for lease violations) to "fix" the issue or leave.
• The Next Step: If you stay past the date, the landlord must file a Summons and Complaint in court.
• Your Right to a Hearing: You have the legal right to stay in your home until a Judge signs an official Execution for Possession. Only a State Marshal can physically remove you.

1. Check the Marshal's Signature: Look at the bottom of the notice. It must be served by a State Marshal. If your landlord just handed it to you or left it in your mailbox, it may be legally invalid.
2. Document Everything: Take photos of your apartment’s current condition. If the eviction is for "damages," you need proof of what the place looks like today.
3. Apply for "Right to Counsel": Because you live in CT, you may be eligible for a FREE lawyer to represent you in housing court. Use our link below to check your eligibility.

• Myth: "The date on the paper is my move-out date."
  Reality: It is the earliest date a landlord can start a court case.
• Myth: "If I pay the rent now, the eviction stops."
  Reality: In CT, once a Notice to Quit is served, a landlord can refuse your rent to keep the eviction moving. If they do take your money, make sure you get a receipt that says "Accepted for Use and Occupancy only."
• Myth: "I can be locked out if I stay."
  Reality: Lockouts are 100% illegal in Connecticut. If your landlord changes the locks or shuts off your water, call 2-1-1 immediately.