Tenant eviction law varies depending on the state or city, as well as the specific circumstances surrounding the eviction. General rules for all jurisdictions make it illegal for a landlord to evict a tenant for discriminatory reasons, or to harass, threaten, or intimidate a tenant into leaving. The only way a landlord can legally evict a tenant is through a court of law. Before formal eviction proceedings can begin, a landlord must present a tenant with an eviction notice, also referred to as a ﾓnotice to quitﾔ or ﾓnotice to vacate.ﾔ The notice should be delivered personally to the tenant or sent via registered or certified mail. The notice gives a specific amount of time the tenant has to either leave the property or settle the matter with the landlord by complying with the lease terms. If the tenant refuses to leave or comply with lease terms, a landlord may then file a complaint with the court to have the tenant evicted. By law, a tenant is allowed to file an answer to an eviction complaint and may make a defense in court arguing against the eviction.