Maine § 6014. - Remedies for illegal evictions
Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 6014. — Remedies for illegal evictions, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 6014.. Remedies for illegal evictions
1. Illegal evictions. Except as permitted by Title 15, chapter 517 or Title 17, chapter 91, evictions that are effected without resort to the provisions of this chapter are illegal and against public policy. Illegal evictions include, but are not limited to, the following.
A. No landlord may willfully cause, directly or indirectly, the interruption or termination of any utility service being supplied to the tenant including, but not limited to, water, heat, light, electricity, gas, telephone, sewerage, elevator or refrigeration, whether or not the utility service is under the control of the landlord, except for such temporary interruption as may be necessary while actual repairs are in process or during temporary emergencies. [PL 1981, c. 428, §8 (NEW).]
B. No landlord may willfully seize, hold or otherwise directly or indirectly deny a tenant access to and possession of the tenant's rented or leased premises, other than through proper judicial process. [PL 1981, c. 428, §8 (NEW).]
C. No landlord may willfully seize, hold or otherwise directly or indirectly deny a tenant access to and possession of the tenant's property, other than by proper judicial process. [PL 1981, c. 428, §8 (NEW).]
2. Remedies. Upon a finding that an illegal eviction has occurred, the court shall find one or both of the following.
A. The tenant is entitled to recover actual damages or $250, whichever is greater. [PL 1991, c. 666 (AMD).]
B. The tenant is entitled to recover the aggregate amount of costs and expenses determined by the court to have been reasonably incurred on the tenant's behalf in connection with the prosecution or defense of such action, together with a reasonable amount for attorneys' fees. [PL 1991, c. 666 (AMD).]
3. Good faith. A court may award attorneys' fees to the defendant if, upon motion and hearing, it is determined that an action filed pursuant to this section was not brought in good faith and was frivolous or intended for harassment only.
4. Nonexclusivity. The remedies provided in this section are in addition to any other rights and remedies conferred by law.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 6014.
What does Maine Revised Statutes § 6014. cover?
Section 6014. ("Remedies for illegal evictions") is part of the Maine Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Maine. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maine § 6014.?
A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 6014." (Maine). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maine law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maine official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maine attorney.
How does Maine § 6014. apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maine can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maine.