MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

What should you do when you see a landlord moving a tenant's belongings without clear authorization?

1. Inform the parties involved that it is a civil matter

2. Arrest the landlord

3. Ask if there is any court documentation authorizing the landlord to remove the tenant

4. Advise the tenant to contact legal counsel

The correct answer is: Inform the parties involved that it is a civil matter

In situations where a landlord is moving a tenant's belongings without clear authorization, the appropriate action is to address the complexity of the situation. When a tenant's possessions are being removed, it often falls under civil law rather than criminal law. Informing the parties involved that it is a civil matter recognizes that disputes regarding property and tenancy are typically resolved through civil procedures rather than through law enforcement intervention. By taking this approach, you acknowledge that the landlord may have legal grounds to act, but it must be substantiated by appropriate documentation, such as a court order or eviction notice. It's vital for law enforcement to avoid unnecessary escalation by intervening in a dispute that may not constitute a criminal offense. This response promotes an understanding of the legal framework surrounding landlord-tenant relationships and encourages resolution through the proper legal channels. While it's important to ask if there is any court documentation or to advise the tenant to seek legal counsel, informing both parties that the issue is civil emphasizes the need for resolution through legal actions rather than law enforcement involvement.