12 V.S.A. § ___ § 4920
Trespass for treble damages
Operative Text
The complainant in an action for forcible entry and detainer, who recovers against the person complained of, may recover treble damages, with costs of suit, by an action for trespass against the offender.
Under 12 V.S.A. ch. 171 § 4920, a person who successfully wins a forcible entry and detainer action in Vermont may then pursue a separate trespass lawsuit against the offending party. If successful in that trespass action, the winning party can recover three times the actual damages suffered, plus the costs of bringing the suit. This provision creates a significant financial consequence for unlawful entries or detentions beyond the original action.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Vermont's 12 V.S.A. ch. 171 § 4920 is a reminder that unlawful self-help evictions or forcible entries can expose a property owner to substantial financial liability. Compliant operators follow lawful eviction procedures through the courts rather than taking matters into their own hands, because a tenant who prevails in a forcible entry and detainer action could then pursue treble damages in a separate trespass suit. Maintaining proper documentation of all entry and eviction procedures is a standard practice for operators seeking to avoid this elevated exposure.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under 12 V.S.A. ch. 171 § 4920, a tenant who successfully brings a forcible entry and detainer action against a landlord or other party may have the right to pursue a follow-on trespass lawsuit seeking three times their actual damages plus court costs. This provision can be a meaningful enforcement path when someone has been unlawfully forced from their home or had their possession interfered with. Tenants who believe they have experienced a forcible entry or unlawful detainer may wish to consult a tenant-rights organization or legal aid office to understand how this provision might apply to their circumstances.
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 18, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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