Cal. Civ. Code § 29-18-103
Forcible detainer defined.
Operative Text
A forcible detainer is where a person enters lawfully or peaceably, and holds unlawfully, and by any of the means enumerated in § 29-18-102 as constituting a forcible entry.
Under Tenn. Code Ann. tit. 29, ch. 18 § 29-18-103, Tennessee law distinguishes between how a person initially enters a property and how they continue to occupy it. A 'forcible detainer' occurs when someone who entered a property lawfully or peaceably later refuses to leave and holds the property through the same kinds of force, threats, or intimidation that would constitute a forcible entry under § 29-18-102. In other words, a peaceful entry does not shield an occupant from legal consequences if the continued possession becomes unlawful and coercive.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers in Tennessee should be aware that § 29-18-103 provides a legal basis for removing an occupant even when that person originally entered the premises with permission or without force. A compliant operator generally documents the terms under which any person is permitted to occupy the property, so that a transition from lawful to unlawful holding can be clearly established if a detainer action becomes necessary. Understanding the connection between § 29-18-103 and the enumerated acts in § 29-18-102 helps operators recognize when a situation may qualify for a forcible detainer proceeding under Tennessee law.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Tenants in Tennessee should understand that § 29-18-103 means a landlord may pursue a forcible detainer action even if the tenant originally moved in lawfully, if the landlord alleges the continued occupancy involves the kinds of conduct described in § 29-18-102. Knowing this distinction can be relevant when evaluating whether a detainer claim against you has a proper legal basis, and tenants may raise procedural or substantive defenses in court if the alleged conduct does not meet the statutory definition. Tenant-rights organizations and legal aid services can help explain how § 29-18-103 applies to particular circumstances and what options may be available in a detainer proceeding.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 29, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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