Cleveland, OH asked in Civil Rights, Small Claims and Divorce for Ohio

Q: My husband left the house, can I change the locks?

He left for a few days, didn't answer phone calls or text messages. He came back to the house while I wasn't home with the police. He took the dog and some of his belongings. Can I change the locks to the house if I tell him I'm doing it?

1 Lawyer Answer

A: Are both your names on the deed for the house? You can change the locks, but it is the marital home, so he can come back and get them changed to regain entry. If you file for divorce, you can seek a temporary order for possession of the house while the divorce is pending. Use the Find a Lawyer tab to consult a local attorney about the process and your options.

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