The laws concerning eviction in the state of Massachusetts state that a landlord must serve a tenant with an eviction notice, also called a notice to quit, detailing the reason for the eviction. Massachusetts eviction law requires a 14 day or a 7 day notice depending on the reason for the eviction. The tenant may then be able to settle the matter with the landlord by correcting the problem that led to the notice. If the matter is not settled within the amount of time stated on the notice to quit, a landlord must then have a Summary Process Summons and Complaint served to the tenant by an authorized Sheriff or Constable. The Summons and Complaint will inform the tenant of the date of the eviction hearing. The tenant should then file an answer to the complaint, making a case against the eviction. If a tenant loses the eviction hearing, they may appeal the judgment. If this fails, the eviction proceeds with an execution paper from the court detailing the date and time when the tenant must vacate the property. If a tenant does not lease the property, Massachusetts eviction law states that a Sheriff or Constable may forcibly remove the tenant and place any furniture or personal items in storage.