If I file criminal charges against my tenant for destruction of property what would happen to them? Jail? (which I doubt) could I use this as leverage against them by telling them I would press charges if the property is not repaired? Or would this be against the law? I only want my property fixed I don't want to ruin their lives.

Hello cd:

If you want your property fixed, file CIVIL charges against them in the form of a small claims court law suit. IF they don't fix it, you'll win a judgment and they won't go to jail.

excon