I live in Chesapeake, VA. I broke up with my boyfriend for a few reasons... one when he gets mad he throws things into the walls (recently a cell phone which put a hole in the wall) and he's also addicted to vicodin and walks through the door looped every day. I told him he has to leave, I know I have to give him written notice, but how long do I have to give him? Is it thirty days or can I choose? I'd like him out as soon as possible!

Does he pay you any kind of rent? If he pays then you need to give him 30 days written notice. If he doesn't leave within that time then you have to file a lawsuit for eviction.

If he doesn't pay any rent then he is considered a guest (or a trespasser). You can give him any amount of notice and if he doesn't leave then you can change the locks.

You own the condo. Has your BF ever shared in the expenses? If not, then he is not a tenant. If he is there without your permission, he's a trespasser. Give him a few days to clear out. If he gets violent, call the police! Then change the locks while they have him in custody. Pack up his belongings and make arrangements with him to come pick them up when you have someone with you.

Is he an owner of the condo unit or is he on a lease with you? This is very important.

If not, you do not need to give any notice. He is just living with you and has no claim to your home. It is kind of like a job in most states. He can be fired "at will."

Sorry ScottGem, didn't see your post when I was writing the answer.

Lisa, ScottGem's advice posting is a good one. If you are serious about this and your boyfriend has a tendency toward violence, it is always a good idea to get the police involved. You may want to stop by the stationhouse and speak with someone about what your legal options are. You might be surprised at how helpful they can be.

Ruby, I'm not the one who asked the question. But yes, Scott's advice is usually very good. And thanks for the suggestion about checking out my legal options. :D

Lisa, sorry, didn't go up far enough when reviewing. Didn't see your answer either. When I was writing my response, no one else had posted. Being in the boonies, I only have dial-up. Kind of lousy but I have no other options yet.

Rawten, Lisa's posting is right on the money too!

Sorry for the slower response.

I own my condo and he has given me money towards his half of expenses. I called the magistrate after posting this question and was told if he has lived with me for 30 days or longer I have to give him 30 days written notice. Thank you for taking time to answer, I appreciate everyone's help.

Since he made payments he is most likely considered a tenant under your local laws. After giving him 30 days notice (make sure you give him WRITTEN notice), if he hasn't left you will have to file a lawsuit for eviction. You cannot change the locks or put his stuff outside.

I have a question about this though.

If he has a tendency toward violence she should call the police, that has already been established.

Now, once he is taken away then she can file for an order of protection which would keep him away from her for at least 30 days. Therefore, she would have little to worry about if she had the eviction notice served while he was being held.

Is that a possibility?