In Minnesota, the law is clear: landlords must follow specific legal procedures to evict a tenant. Any attempt by a landlord to force a tenant out of their home without a court order is illegal. This is often referred to as "self-help eviction," and it's a serious violation of tenant rights with significant legal consequences for the landlord. What Constitutes an Illegal Eviction in Minnesota? An eviction in Minnesota is only legal if it's carried out through the proper judicial process, which means the landlord files an unlawful detainer (eviction) action in court, obtains a court order for eviction, and a sheriff serves that order and removes the tenant. Any action by a landlord intended to remove a tenant from their rental unit without this court process is illegal. This applies even if the tenant has violated the lease or is behind on rent. The landlord's only legal recourse is through the courts. Common Types of Illegal Eviction Tactics ...