# Civil Code: Eviction, Issuance and Foreclosure of Mortgages Code (2022)

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- **Document type:** Tribal code

## Text

Civil Code: Eviction, Issuance and Foreclosure of Mortgages Code

HANNAHVILLE INDIAN COMMUNITY
TITLE IV, CHAPTER 7
EVICTION, ISSUANCE AND FORECLOSURE OF MORTGAGES CODE

Contents
4.7.101

Title.............................................................................................................................. 2

4.7.102

Authorization and Purpose. ......................................................................................... 2

4.7.103

Applicability ................................................................................................................ 2

4.7.104

Civil Nature of Code.................................................................................................... 4

4.7.105

Jurisdiction and Scope ................................................................................................. 4

4.7.106

Law to Be Applied ....................................................................................................... 5

4.7.107

Definitions ................................................................................................................... 5

4.7.108

Landlord-Tenant Responsibilities................................................................................ 9

4.7.109

Landlord authority to make rules and regulations. .................................................... 11

4.7.110

Landlord Responsibilities .......................................................................................... 11

4.7.111

Tenant Responsibilities.............................................................................................. 12

4.7.112

Tenant Remedies ....................................................................................................... 13

4.7.113

Landlord Remedies. ................................................................................................... 15

4.7.114

Abandoned Premises. ................................................................................................ 15

4.7.115

Grounds for Eviction from the premises. .................................................................. 16

4.7.116

Notice to Quit; when required; contents and form of notice; time and method of
service. ....................................................................................................................... 16

4.7.117

Pre-Eviction Options. ................................................................................................ 19

4.7.118

Judicial Eviction Procedures; Summons and Complaint; Preliminary Hearing;
Formal Hearing. ......................................................................................................... 20

4.7.119

Defenses to Eviction. ................................................................................................. 24

4.7.120

Judgment/Order of Eviction/Order to Vacate and Surrender Premises ..................... 24

4.7.121

Forcible Eviction ....................................................................................................... 25

4.6.122

No Self-Help Eviction ............................................................................................... 26

4.7.123

Mortgages; Leasehold Mortgages; Lien Priority; Recording; Default; Notice;
Foreclosure Procedures; Complaint and Summons; Service; Judgment; Post Hearing
Relief.......................................................................................................................... 26

4.7.124

Sovereign Immunity of Tribe. ................................................................................... 32

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Civil Code: Eviction, Issuance and Foreclosure of Mortgages Code

HANNAHVILLE INDIAN COMMUNITY
GENERAL CIVIL CODE – REAL ESTATE/LANDLORD/TENANT
TITLE 4, CHAPTER 7
EVICTION, ISSUANCE AND FORECLOSURE OF MORTGAGES CODE
4.7.101

Title

This Code shall be known as the “Hannahville Indian Community Eviction, Issuance and
Foreclosure of Mortgages Code.
4.7.102

Authorization and Purpose.

(1) Authorization. Subject to federal law and regulation and the tribal Constitution, the
Hannahville Indian Community Tribal Council or its designate, may issue easements,
permits, leases, licenses with or without profits, for commercial, educational,
residential, recreational, cultural, religious or other private or public purposes upon the
tribal trust, restricted, or fee-owned lands of the Hannahville Indian Community. The
Tribal Council will issue these easements, permits leases and licenses according to
priorities established by the Tribal Council giving due consideration to its land use and
economic development plans and the general welfare of the tribal community. Subject
to applicable law, the Tribal Council may, by future resolution, regulation or legislative
enactment, issue specific guidelines governing the application and approval process in
respect to the issuance of such easements, permits, leases and licenses.
(2) Purpose. The purpose of this Code is to define the roles and responsibilities of persons
and entities who enter into agreements, including mortgage, security, and rental
agreements of every kind, including, without limitation, leasehold and other possessory
interests in fee, tribal trust or restricted lands, for, without limitation, the purchase, use
and occupancy of premises, including buildings and other structures used primarily for
commercial, educational, residential, recreational, cultural, religious, or other private or
public purposes. The purpose of this Code is also to facilitate the delivery of services
and aid in the smooth operation, uniform interpretation, and enforcement of these
agreements.
4.7.103

Applicability

(1) Scope of Application. This Code shall apply to any and all arrangements, formal or
informal, written, oral, or by practice of the parties, in relation to renting, leasing,
purchasing, occupying, or using any and all premises, including, without limitation,
housing, dwellings, or other accommodations for human occupation and/or residence as
well as for educational, recreational, religious, cultural, commercial, or other public or
private use, except as otherwise provided by applicable law.
(2) Hannahville Indian Community Perpetual Right of First Refusal. Except as otherwise
provided by applicable law, and subject to all valid interests, liens and encumbrances of
third parties, the Hannahville Indian Community retains a perpetual right of first refusal,
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in regard to any possessory interest in tribal trust or restricted lands, including structures
of every kind which are built upon tribal trust or restricted lands. The Tribe may
exercise this right of first refusal in the sole discretion of the Hannahville Indian
Community Tribal Council, or its designated agent, upon the occurrence of any event
involving transfer or conveyance of such interests, including, without limitation, the
assignment, sale, mortgage, default, foreclosure, eviction, deed, deed of trust, deed in
lieu of foreclosure, ejectment, will, devise, intestate succession, easement, leasehold,
permit, or other recordable interest. Provided, however, that a waiver of, or declination
to exercise, the perpetual right of first refusal upon the occurrence of any single event
giving rise to the Tribe’s right of first refusal shall constitute a waiver of the right only
as to that event and shall not constitute a waiver as to any other event. Provided further,
that upon final judgment of eviction or foreclosure, including any appeals, in the
exercise of such right of first refusal the Tribe shall pay all sums then in arrears and
shall either assume the mortgage or pay the balance of the loan, unless otherwise
required by prior agreement or by applicable law.
(a) Exception. When a transfer or conveyance giving rise to the Tribe’s right of first
refusal is being made to a tribal member, the Tribal Council, or its designated
agent, shall exercise its right of first refusal only for good cause and in the best
interest of the tribal community.
(b) Notice by lender, transferor, conveyor. Every lender, assignor, grantor, transferor,
or conveyor of any interest subject to this right of first refusal shall give reasonable
advance notice of no less than 30 calendar days to the Tribal Council, or its
designated agent, of the pending transfer, to enable the Tribe to make an informed
decision in regard to any transfer. Notice to the Tribal Council in the absence of a
specific designation, shall be given in writing to the Hannahville Indian
Community Tribal Secretary by personal delivery or by certified mail addressed to
the official then elected to the office of Tribal Secretary at the administration office
assigned to that individual, with a copy to the tribal attorney.
[1] Subject to applicable law, including, without limitation 25 U.S.C.A. § 2205 et
seq, and attendant regulations, any event giving rise to the Tribe’s right of first
refusal shall be null and void if the Tribe has not received notice of its right of
first refusal as provided in this section.
(3) The following arrangements are not governed by this Code:
(a) Any residence that derives from medical care, religious ceremonies, educational
activities, counseling, detention, or similar services.
(b) Occupancy in a hotel, motel, or other commercial lodging for which a formal lease
is not in effect.
(c) There is no right of eviction for Three Fires Supportive Housing program
participants who sign occupancy agreements for Three Fires Supportive Housing.
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Instead, presentment of a 3 days’ notice to quit the premises shall be sufficient for
purposes of initiating a criminal trespass.
(d) Any person who is not a signatory of the Three Fires occupancy agreement has no
right of eviction and therefore shall be considered a trespasser.
(e) Guests of the elder’s building and duplex apartments have no right to eviction and
therefore shall be considered a trespasser subject to the current Elder’s Housing Policy.
Amended: October 3, 2022
4.7.104

Civil Nature of Code

This Code is civil in nature and does not affect any applicable provisions of the Hannahville
Indian Community Criminal Code unless specifically addressed and modified in this Code.
4.7.105

Jurisdiction and Scope

(1) Geographic and Subject Matter Jurisdiction. The Hannahville Indian Community Tribal
Court shall have exclusive jurisdiction over all matters, causes of action, agreements,
and relationships as indicated within the applicability and other sections of this Code
which relate to matters within the geographic jurisdiction of the Tribe as defined by the
tribal Constitution, Codes and federal law and which involve tribal housing authorities,
the Tribe, or private landlord-tenant relations, including, without limitation, leasehold
mortgages, brought under this Code and which occur on tribal fee-owned lands as
allowed by applicable law, and upon restricted lands, and tribal trust lands wherever
situated, unless specifically excepted by this Code or other applicable provisions of law.
(a) The Hannahville Indian Community Tribal Court shall have concurrent jurisdiction
to the extent that a federal cause of action may be brought in the federal courts in
relation to federally guaranteed, insured or funded projects governed by federal
statute and regulation and which occur on tribal fee-owned, trust or restricted lands
unless otherwise provided by applicable law. Unless required by federal law in
respect to a federally funded, insured or guaranteed project, a claimant is not
required to exhaust his or her administrative remedies prior to filing suit.
(2) Personal Jurisdiction. Jurisdiction is extended over all persons or entities regardless of
their status as tribal members or non-members, Indian or non-Indian, who reside upon
tribal trust or restricted lands or who have entered into agreements, oral or written, and
who have entered into arrangements, formal or informal, which are written, oral, or
exist by practice of the parties, in relation to lands and/or the construction of and the
renting, leasing, purchasing, occupying, or the use of any and all housing, dwellings, or
other accommodations for human occupation and/or residence or commercial use upon
tribal trust lands, wherever situated, unless excepted by applicable law.

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4.7.106

Law to Be Applied

The Hannahville Indian Community Tribal Court shall apply the provisions of this Code, any
other applicable tribal law and the terms encompassed within the agreements. In addition, the
court shall apply federal law and regulations when a case arising under the law relating to the U.
S. Department of Housing and Urban Development or other federal agency, requires federal law
and regulations to be applied. In the absence of tribal or federal law, the court may look to the
law of other jurisdictions for guidance in fashioning a remedy.
4.7.107

Definitions

(1) Adult: a person who is 18 years of age or older or a person less than 18 years of age
who has become an adult by judicial order and who is thus an emancipated person.
(2) Assignment: a transfer of an entire interest in premises by a person or entity (the
“assignor”), holding the right to make an assignment to another, (an “assignee”).
(3) Borrower/ Buyer/Mortgagor/ Owner/Purchaser: any person or entity including without
limitation, the Tribe, any Indian Housing Authority, an individual tribal member, or his
or her legal heir(s), assign(s), successor(s) or executor(s), administrator(s) of the Tribe,
or any individual who buys, leases to own, purchases, and/ or executes a mortgage,
including a leasehold mortgage, in favor of a lender or mortgagee, in regard to a
building or other structure which is located upon tribal fee-owned, trust or restricted
lands. A buyer who buys a structure for cash may be known as a purchaser for cash.
(4) Default: any substantial failure on the part of an obligated person or entity to perform
any covenant, condition, obligation, term of any agreement, and/or to make his or her
payment for the use and/or occupancy of premises when due, as defined by agreement
of the parties and by applicable law.
(5) Dwelling Unit: a house, building, or other structure, or portion of such a building or
structure, not including public transient accommodation, which is rented, purchased,
leased or used primarily as a dwelling or residence by a person or entity.
(6) Eviction; Action for Recovery and/or Surrender of Premises; Summary Proceedings: a
civil action to recover possession of premises, including, without limitation, other
equitable or statutory relief as provided by this Code and other applicable law.
(7) Foreclosure: the legal procedures by which a mortgagor, and each person or entity
claiming through the mortgagor, is divested of his or her interest in real or personal
property, including leasehold interests in tribal trust lands which have been made
subject to a mortgage agreement.
(8) Holdover tenant: a tenant whose written lease agreement has expired. A holdover tenant
is a tenant at will.

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(9) Homebuyer/Purchaser: a tribal member or entity who or which is primarily liable for
payment of a monthly payment in a privately owned, tribal, state, or federally
guaranteed or funded program, including, without limitation, a home ownership
program, and in whose name either a lease/option or a mortgage agreement exists.
(10) Housing Authority: all Tribal Council authorized organizations and entities charged
with oversight of landlord-tenant and/or buyer/lender relations on behalf of the Tribe
whether or not the authority is incorporated under tribal, federal or state law.
(11) Indian: any person recognized as being an Indian or Alaska Native by a tribe or by the
government of the United States.
(12) Landlord: the person or entity who or which has the primary right of possession,
occupancy, or ownership and who may legally enter into an agreement of occupancy
with a lessee. “Landlord” includes, without limitation, a lender, the Tribe, an Indian
Housing Authority, a person or entity, or a federal agency, which is a lender, lienor, the
owner, agent, lessor, or sublessor, of premises intended for the use and/or occupancy of
tenants, lessees, buyers, mortgagors or purchasers as defined in this Code.
(13) Landlord-Tenant Action: a civil suit or lawsuit, claim, complaint or defense, in relation
to a dispute between persons or entities concerning the sale, purchase, rental, lease,
sublease, assignment, use or occupancy of premises, including claims for the payment
of monies for such use and damages to property related to the use and/or occupancy, as
well as all other disputes arising from the landlord-tenant relationship.
(14) Lease: an agreement, written or oral, formal or informal, or by practice of the parties,
in relation to renting, leasing, purchasing, occupying, or using premises, including
without limitation, any and all buildings, structures, houses, trailers, dwellings, or other
accommodations for human occupation and residence and further, including structures
and buildings of every kind for commercial, educational, recreational, cultural,
religious, or other private or public use, upon tribal fee-owned, restricted, or tribal trust
lands wherever situated, unless excepted by applicable law. A lease includes all valid
rules and regulations applicable to the terms and conditions of the use and occupancy
of the premises, including terms imposed or implied by law. A lease may also mean, as
appropriate, the lease of tribal trust real or personal property for which a leasehold
mortgage, as defined in this Code, has or will be given. The terms “lease” and “rental
agreement” may be used synonymously.
(15) Leasehold Mortgage: the documents evidencing a security and/or possessory interest in
tribal trust or restricted lands, as required to be approved under federal law and
regulation, and which are required to be given to secure a lender’s advance of monies
for any purpose, including the construction and financing of structures to be used for
residential and/or commercial purposes.
(16) Lender/Mortgagee: the person or entity, including federal agencies, who or which
advances monies and/or insures or guarantees a loan to a borrower to enable the
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borrower to purchase, build, or remodel a building or other structure and secures an
interest in the premises as collateral for the loan. “Mortgagee” includes all successors
in interest to the interest of a mortgagee.
(17) Lessee: the person(s) who by agreement, occupies or has the right to occupy or
otherwise use the premises for residential or other purposes. “Lessee” may be used
synonymously with the word “tenant,” and, as appropriate, “homebuyer.”
(18) Lessor: the owner or person or entity who or which has the primary right of possession,
occupancy or ownership of the premises, which are the subject of a lease agreement.
“Lessor” and “Landlord” may be used synonymously.
(19) License: a privilege, revocable at the will of the Tribe to enter onto tribal fee-owned,
trust or restricted lands for a specified purpose. A licensee who has been directed to
leave by the owner or other authority having the right to possess, use, occupy or control
the premises, and who fails to leave as legally requested, becomes a trespasser subject
to the Hannahville Indian Community Criminal Code section 1.2049 and its successor
statutes relating to Trespassers, or other applicable law.
(20) Nuisance: the maintenance on real or personal property of a condition which:
(a) Unreasonably threatens the health, safety or welfare of the public and/or
neighboring land users; or
(b) Unreasonably or substantially interferes with the ability of neighboring property
users to enjoy the reasonable use and occupancy of their property.
(21) Occupant: is any person, excepting a trespasser, but including a guest, who occupies
and/or, uses premises for any period of time, with the permission of a person or entity
having a legal right to possession, use or occupation of the premises. “Occupant” may
include, as applicable, a “tenant,” a “homebuyer” who leases to own premises, a
“mortgagor,” or other “purchaser” and/or the household members of a tenant,
mortgagor, purchaser or homebuyer.
(22) Owner: any person or entity, jointly or individually, having legal title to all or part of
land or a building or other structure and who may legally convey that title by sale or
gift.
(23) Permit: a privilege, non-assignable, non-transferable, revocable at will in the discretion
of Tribe and the Secretary of the Interior, to enter on and use a specified tract of land
for a specified purpose. A permit does not include the right to take profits unless
specified by written agreement or tribal resolution. The terms “lease,” “lessor” and
“lessee,” when used in this Code include, when applicable, “permit,” permitter,” and
“permittee,” respectively. A permittee who has been directed to leave by the owner or
other authority having the right to possess, use, occupy or control of the premises, and
who fails to leave as legally requested, becomes a trespasser subject to the Hannahville
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Indian Community Criminal Code section 1.2049 and its successor statutes relating to
trespassers, or other applicable law.
(24) Premises: includes lands, tenements, condominium property, cooperative apartments,
air and water rights and all manner of real and personal property. It includes structures
fixed or mobile, temporary or permanent, vessels, mobile trailer homes and vehicles
which are used or intended for use primarily as a dwelling or as a place for commercial
or industrial operations or storage.
(25) Profits: the privilege, without limitation, of the holder of the privilege to take or
remove some product of the soil, such as the privilege to remove turf or timber for use
as fuel or sale; to have animals graze; to fish or hunt for food or sale. Sale of profits are
subject to express authorization of the Tribal Council and applicable law. The sale of
profits without express authorization of the Tribal Council and according to applicable
law may subject the taker to the penalties of tribal, state and federal law.
(26) Rent: all periodic payments to be made to a landlord or lender under a lease or
purchase agreement subject to this Code.
(27) Subordinate Lienholder: the holder of any security instrument properly filed pursuant
to applicable law, including a lien filed subsequent to the recording of a leasehold
mortgage. This definition does not include the Tribe with respect to a claim for
payment of a tribal leasehold tax.
(28) Tenant: a person or entity who or which, by agreement, occupies or has the right to use
or occupy premises, including land, a building, or other structure for residential,
commercial, or other purposes. The word “tenant,” as applicable, shall, unless
otherwise indicated, include “homebuyers” who lease to own and other “purchasers” as
further defined by this Code, or applicable law. The word “tenant” may, as appropriate,
also include the word “occupant.”
(29) Tenant at will: a person or entity who possesses or occupies premises and who does not
otherwise have a written lease agreement. A tenant at will includes a holdover tenant.
A tenant at will acquires no right of occupancy by virtue of remaining on the premises.
A tenant at will who has been directed to leave by the owner or other authority having
the right to possess, use, occupy or control of the premises, and who fails to leave as
legally requested, becomes a trespasser subject to the Hannahville Indian Community
Criminal Code section 1.2049 and its successor statutes relating to trespassers.
(30) Tribal Court: the Hannahville Indian Community Tribal Court.
(31) Tribal Recording Clerk: the Magistrate or other authorized tribal court official required
to receive and record leasehold and other documents evidencing a security interest in
real or personal property, including trust or restricted properties of the tribe or an
individual.

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(32) Tribe: the Hannahville Indian Community.
(33) Trust Land: land, or any interest in land, the title to which is held by the United States
of America for the use and benefit of the Hannahville Indian Community or individual
tribal member(s).
(34) Restricted Land: land, or any interest in land, the title to which is held in the name of
an Indian owner subject to the condition that the land cannot be alienated or
encumbered without the consent of the Secretary of the Interior, either by a limitation
contained in the conveyance instrument pursuant to federal law or because a federal
law directly imposes such limitations.
(35) Waste: the destruction, either in whole or in part, of buildings or land which results in
injury to the lessor’s interest in property and does not include normal wear and tear.
4.7.108

Landlord-Tenant Responsibilities.

(1) Lease/Rental Agreements; effect; prohibited terms; implied terms.
(a) Minimum rights. The provisions of this Code and any other applicable laws shall
establish the minimum rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants. Unless
inconsistent with this Code, tribal law, or any applicable federal law, rental
agreements may supplement these minimum rights and responsibilities.
[1] Security Deposits; limits.
[a] A landlord may require a security deposit in an amount equal to
$100.00 or one month’s periodic rent, whichever is greater. Additional
amounts may be required as nonrefundable cleaning fees for special
circumstances like pets or prior tenant history, which may include, without
limitation, prior damages.
[b] The rental agreement shall clearly state whether sums deposited with the
landlord are in the nature of a refundable security deposit or in the nature
of a nonrefundable fee attributable to a service provided by the landlord. If
the rental agreement does not so state, there is a rebuttable presumption
that the monies so deposited with the landlord are in the nature of a
refundable security deposit. The person or entity who is the landlord at the
time a tenancy is terminated shall pay the tenant or former tenant the
amount of the security deposit that was deposited with the landlord, less
any damages to the premises which are due to the fault of the tenant and
less any amounts of rent owed to the landlord. Damages shall not include
normal wear and tear.

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[c] Action to reclaim security deposit. Thirty days after termination of the
tenancy, a tenant may bring a civil action in tribal court to reclaim any part
of his or her security deposit that may be due.
(b) Prohibited terms. No rental, purchase or other agreement shall:
[1] Agree to waive or forfeit rights or remedies provided for specifically by this
Code or any other law applicable to the agreement.
[2] Waive, limit, restrict, limit the liability of, or indemnify, a landlord for any
liabilities or obligations imposed upon the landlord by applicable law.
[3] Agree to permit the landlord to dispossess the tenant without a court order,
which may be ex parte, for good cause.
[4] Agree to require the tenant to pay a late charge prior to the expiration of the
grace period set forth in the eviction proceedings.
[5] Contain a provision which could be construed to, or which limits, impairs,
diminishes, or extinguishes the perpetual right of right refusal in the tribe to
reacquire the premises upon default, conveyance or, without limitation, any
transfer, including a transfer by will, devise or trust, by the occupant(s) as
elsewhere provided in this Code or other applicable law.
Any provision prohibited by the preceding subsection shall be void and
unenforceable.
(c) Implied Terms:
[1] Term of tenancy. In the absence of a statement of a definite term in a written
rental agreement, a tenancy shall be month-to-month. Any rental agreement
that exceeds a term of one year shall not be valid unless it is in writing. If by
oral agreement or practice of the parties, the rental period has exceeded 1 year,
then the term is month to month unless the landlord requests the tenant to
sooner vacate the premises, or until a written agreement shall require a
different period.
[2] Lease/rental amount; where payable. The amount of rent shall be that amount
stipulated to between the parties. In the absence of a definite amount stated in
the rental agreement, rent shall be the fair market value of the premises. Rent is
payable at the landlord’s office or as provided by agreement.
[3] Leaseholds of trust or restricted premises. While premises are in trust or
restricted status, all of the Lessee’s obligations under the lease, and the
obligation of his, her, (their) sureties, are to the United States as well as to the
owner of the land.
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[4] Right of Entry on Premises. As applicable, the Secretary of an appropriate
federal agency which is a lender, insurer or guarantor of a loan and the lessor,
mortgagee, or other controlling agent and their authorized representative(s)
shall have the right, at any reasonable times during the term of a lease, and
with reasonable notice, to enter upon the leased premises, or any part thereof,
to inspect, service and valuate all buildings and other improvements erected
and placed upon the premises.
4.7.109

Landlord authority to make rules and regulations.

(1) The landlord may make reasonable rules and regulations regarding the use and
occupancy of the premises. The tenant shall be given notice of the rules when entering
into the rental agreement or when they are adopted. Any rule or regulation that
substantially modifies the terms of the original agreement is not valid unless the tenant
consents in writing. Such rules and regulations are enforceable against the tenant if:
(a) Their purpose is to promote the health, safety, or welfare of the tenants and/or
preserve the landlord’s property from abusive use; and
[1] The rules are reasonably related to the purpose for which they are adopted; and
[2] The rules apply to all tenants in the premises in a fair manner; and
[3] The rules are clear in explanation and direction.
4.7.110

Landlord Responsibilities

Except as otherwise provided in the rental agreement or pursuant to a federally funded Mutual
Help and Occupancy Agreement, federal agency direct, insured or guaranteed loan, or as
otherwise provided by applicable law, each landlord subject to the provisions of this Code shall:
(1) Maintain the premises in a decent, safe, and sanitary condition.
(2) Comply with applicable building and housing codes.
(3) Make all necessary repairs to put and maintain the premises in a fit and habitable
condition, except where the premises are intentionally rendered unfit or uninhabitable
by the tenant or guest, in which case such duty shall be the responsibility of the tenant.
(4) Keep common areas safe, clean, and secure.
(5) Ensure tenant access to the premises.
(6) Maintain in good condition and safe working order all electrical, plumbing, sanitary,
heating, ventilating and other facilities and appliances, where such things are not the
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responsibility of the tenant or are generated by an installation within the exclusive
control of the tenant.
(7) Provide and maintain proper and appropriate receptacles and facilities for the disposal
of ashes, garbage, rubbish and other waste.
(8) Provide potable water, running water, hot water, and heat in accordance with applicable
building and housing codes, except to the extent the tenant is required to provide such
utilities for himself.
(9) Provide the right of quiet enjoyment of the premises to the tenant and make every effort
to prevent the conduct of other tenants, occupants or guests from creating a nuisance,
endangerment to public health or safety, or a breach of the peace.
(10) Disclose, in writing, the name, address, and telephone number of the person
responsible for receiving rent, notices and demands under this Code. Disclose, in
writing, the person authorized to manage the premises, the owner of the premises or his
or her agent and the person responsible for making repairs.
(11) Give sole possession of the premises to the tenant in accordance with the rental
agreement and shall not:
(a) Enter the premises, except where permitted under this Code or another applicable
law.
(b) Make demands to lawfully enter the premises, which results in unreasonable
harassment of the tenant.
(c) Sexually harass or physically assault the tenant.
(d) Lock the tenant out of the premises without court order unless the premises have
been abandoned by the tenant, or as otherwise defined by law.
4.7.111

Tenant Responsibilities

Except as otherwise provided in the rental agreement, each tenant subject to this Code shall:
(1) Pay rent without demand or notice at the time and place agreed upon by the parties, or
as provided by this Code.
(2) Immediately notify the landlord of any defects in the premises hazardous to life, health
or safety for which the landlord is responsible.
(3) Keep the premises reasonably clean and dispose of all ashes, garbage, rubbish, junk and
abandoned vehicles in a proper, sanitary and safe manner.

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(4) Use all electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating, ventilating and other facilities and
appliances, which are part of the premises and the property of the landlord or which are
the subject of a mortgage or other security agreement in a proper, safe, sanitary, and
reasonable manner.
(5) Refrain from destroying, defacing, damaging, or removing any part of the premises or
common areas and require guests to act in a similar manner. Any such waste is the sole
responsibility of the tenant.
(6) Pay reasonable charges for the repair of damages, other than normal wear and tear, to
the premises and/or common areas, caused by the tenant or guests, or repair such
damages as required by the rental or other agreement, within 30 days of such damage.
(7) Conduct themselves and their guests in a manner that does not disturb the quiet
enjoyment of others, cause a breach of the peace, or create a nuisance.
(a) Animals must be kept in accordance with tribal law and as provided by agreement.
(8) Not give up the premises to others, by assignment, sublease, or possession, without the
written permission of the landlord or as provided by written agreement or other
applicable law.
(9) Use the property only for the purposes agreed to and not for any other purpose,
including, without limitation, illegal activities or conduct that may harm the premises or
areas around the premises.
(10) Abide by all rules and regulations under this Code or which are later legally
promulgated according to this Code.
(11) Provide access by the landlord or other controlling agent to the property in order to
perform maintenance and repairs, inspect the premises, and supply necessary services.
Provided that, such access shall be at reasonable times with written or oral notice and
when tenant is present, unless tenant waives the right to be present or unless otherwise
provided by applicable law and/or the written agreement. In the case of an emergency
situation where the health, safety, or welfare of the tenant or tenant’s neighbors is in
danger, the landlord may enter the premises to address the emergency. The landlord
may enter at any time the tenant consents. No tenant who unreasonably denies access
to a lender, landlord, other controlling agent for these purposes may pursue an action or
grievance on the grounds that any services or repairs were not provided.
4.7.112

Tenant Remedies

Where a landlord has not complied with this Code or where the agreement of the parties is
breached by the landlord, the tenant has the following rights:

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(1) To give reasonable notice, which shall be in writing, to the landlord to comply with his
or her obligations under the agreement. Tenant may terminate the rental agreement for a
continual breach of the agreement provided the landlord does not comply within a
reasonable time.
(a) The notice may be served by delivering it personally to the landlord; if a Tribal
Housing Authority, by delivering it to an employee of the housing office of suitable
age and discretion, with a request that it be delivered to the housing director; by
certified mail; or by sending it by first-class mail addressed to the landlord. If the
notice is mailed, the date of receipt is the next regular day for delivery of mail after
the day when it was mailed. If the notice is sent by mail, it shall not be a defense
that the mail was refused, was accepted by a person other than the addressee, or
that it was returned unclaimed to the tenant.
[1] The form and contents of notices required to be given shall be as stated in the
legal documents or as otherwise prescribed in this code.
(2) To require repairs and maintenance which are the responsibility of the landlord. Should
the landlord fail to make necessary repairs within a reasonable time after the tenant
gives written notice, tenant may make necessary repairs, not to exceed the amount of
$500.00, unless agreed to in writing by the landlord, and deduct the cost from rental
payments. Notice shall be given as set forth in the immediately preceding subsection
(a).
(a) Where the tenant makes necessary repairs, he or she shall obtain at least two
written estimates from persons or businesses which regularly provide and, if
applicable, are licensed to perform, the kinds of repairs necessary to be made and
shall make such repairs within the scope of the estimates received, providing
evidence to the landlord of the estimates and the repairs having been done with
tenant’s deduction from rent.
[1] Tenant shall not perform necessary repairs if tenant does not have the
experience, qualifications, training and/or required licenses, to do so. Tenant
may not charge the landlord for his or her time spent in effecting repairs unless
the landlord has formally hired the tenant at a stated rate of pay, which shall
not exceed the [lowest/highest] estimate obtained, to perform the repairs. There
is no presumption of hire to be inferred by landlord’s failure to make repairs in
a timely manner.
[a] Landlord shall have the right to inspect all repairs which tenant has caused
to have been done and shall have the right to challenge the efficacy and
sufficiency of such repairs.
(3) To seek a Court order or judgment for, without limitation:
(a) The payment of monies or costs for repairs lawfully undertaken by tenant;
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(b) To seek compliance with the agreement;
(c) To terminate the agreement; or
(d) To obtain any other relief to which tenant may be entitled by law, equity, or by
agreement of the parties.
4.7.113

Landlord Remedies.

Where a tenant has not complied with this Code and/or where the tenant has breached the
agreement between the parties, the landlord has the right to:
(1) Give reasonable notice, which shall be in writing, to the tenant to: comply with his or
her obligations; to pay any monies due and owing under the agreement; and/or, to
terminate any agreement in which a continuing breach occurs and demand that tenant
and all occupants vacate the premises.
(a) The notice may be served by delivering it personally to the person in possession; by
delivering it on the premises to a guest or occupant of the premises, or an employee
of the lessee, of suitable age and discretion, with a request that it be delivered to the
person in possession; by certified mail; or by sending it by first-class mail
addressed to the person in possession. If the notice is mailed, the date of receipt is
the next regular day for delivery of mail after the day when it was mailed. If the
notice is sent by mail, it shall not be a defense that the mail was refused, was
accepted by a person other than the addressee, or that it was returned unclaimed to
landlord.
[1] The form and contents of notices required to be given shall be as stated in the
legal documents or as otherwise prescribed in this code.
(2) Require, in writing, that repairs or maintenance be done which are the responsibility of
the tenant and require compliance with reasonable rules and regulations for occupancy.
Notices required to be given under this subsection shall be given in accord with
immediately preceding subsection (a).
(3) Seek a court order or judgment for: monies owed; compliance with the agreement or
with any applicable laws; termination of the agreement; payment of damages; eviction
of tenants and other occupants; or any other relief which landlord may be entitled to
under law or the rental agreement.
4.7.114

Abandoned Premises.

(1) Where the premises have been vacated by the tenant(s) without notice and it is
reasonable to assume that the tenant does not intend to return, as is evidenced by,
without limitation, the removal of possessions, nonpayment of rent, disconnected
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utilities, or an expression to the landlord or others that the tenant has abandoned the
premises, a landlord may retake possession. The landlord shall, without further notice to
the tenant, post a notice on the door or other prominently visible part of the premises for
10 calendar days giving notice that that the landlord intends to retake possession of the
premises and all contents will be removed and inventoried if not claimed and removed
by the tenant by the end of 30 calendar days from the first posting of the notice. If the
tenant does not reclaim possessions within 30 calendar days of posting notice, the
premises shall be deemed abandoned and the landlord may dispose of the possessions
without penalty and without compliance with formal eviction proceedings.
4.7.115

Grounds for Eviction from the premises.

An occupant may be evicted for:
(1) A failure on the part of an obligated person or entity to substantially perform any
covenant, condition, obligation or term of any agreement, and/or to make his or her
payment(s) for the use and/or occupancy of premises when due, as defined by
agreement of the parties and by applicable law.
(2) Nuisance, intentional or reckless damage, destruction or injury to the premises of the
landlord or the property of other tenants, disturbing another tenant’s right to quiet
enjoyment of the premises, and/or damage to common property areas.
(3) Serious or repeated violations of the rental or purchase agreement or of any other
applicable statutes or regulations which may govern the use or occupancy of the
premises.
(4) Occupation of any premises without permission or agreement following a reasonable
demand by a person in authority over the premises requesting the occupant to leave.
(5) Under other valid terms in the rental or other agreements which do not conflict with the
provisions of this Code or which, as a matter of federal law, preempt this Code.
4.7.116

Notice to Quit; when required; contents and form of notice; time and method
of service.

(1) When notice to quit is required:
(a) When a lender, landlord or owner, as appropriate, desires to obtain possession of
premises and there exists one or more legal reasons to evict the occupant(s) using
or occupying the premises the lender, landlord, owner, or controlling agent, as
appropriate, shall give notice to the adult occupant(s) to quit the premises
according to the provisions of this chapter.
(b) When the landlord is an Indian housing authority, administering a federal direct,
insured or guaranteed loan project, the housing authority termination notice as
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mandated by the loan documents shall qualify as the notice to quit under this Code,
so long as the time limits of the housing authority termination notice are at least as
long as the time requirements set forth in this Code. It is the duty of the landlord to
establish that he or she is in compliance with any counseling attempts which he or
she is required to make in regard to the occupants as prescribed by applicable law
and/or the rental or purchase agreement.
(c) Exception. The notice provisions of this Code shall not apply to trespassers.
(2) Purpose of Notice to Quit: The purpose of the notice to quit is:
(a) To provide adequate notice to the occupant(s) of a specific problem, which needs to
be addressed and to induce the occupant(s) to enter into discussions with the
landlord or owner to resolve the problem; or
(b) To notify the occupant(s) to vacate the premises and that no further discussion of
the existing problems except vacating will be had.
(3) Contents of Notice to Quit: The Notice to Quit shall:
(a) Be addressed to the adult occupant(s) using or occupying the premises; and
(b) Shall state the legal reasons for eviction; and
(c) Shall state the date the occupant(s) is required to quit the premises.
(d) If the occupant owes money pursuant to a lease or other agreement, the amount due
at the time of the demand shall be stated, excluding any amounts claimed to be due
by reason of any acceleration clause contained in the agreement.
(4) Form of notice. The notice shall be in writing in substantially the following form:
NOTICE TO COMPLY OR QUIT
“ I (or we) hereby give you notice that you are either to (insert specific terms
with which the occupant(s) must comply to avoid quitting the premises, if
applicable) or, to quit use, possession, and/or occupancy of the premises
occupied by you at (give address or other reasonable description of the
location of the premises), on or before the (date to quit) for the following
reason(s) (insert legal reasons, including amounts due, for the notice to quit
using the statutory language and/or words of the agreement). Signed, (use
signature and title of landlord or owner, address, and date of signing).”
(5) Time Requirements for Delivery of Notice; minimums. In respect to individually or
tribally owned or administered premises and unless otherwise required by applicable
law, the notice must be delivered to the tenant(s) within the following periods of times:
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(a) No less than 7 calendar days prior to the date specified in the notice for the
occupant(s) to quit the premises for any failure to pay rent or other payments
required by the rental agreement, or in the case of nuisance, serious injury to
property, or injury to persons. In any situation in which there is an emergency,
notice may be made in a time period, which is reasonable given the situation.
(b) No less than 3 calendar days prior to the date specified in the notice for the
occupant(s) to quit in the case of a sub-lessee occupying the primary dwelling of a
lessor, lessee, or homebuyer.
(c) No less than 30 calendar days in any other situations.
(6) Method of Service of Notice to Quit; when effective; exception.
(a) Method.
[1] Delivery. Delivery shall be made by an adult; and
[2] Personal service. The notice shall be personally served to a tenant or purchaser
or to any occupant of the premises of suitable age and discretion with a request
that it be delivered to the person in possession; with a copy delivered by mail;
or
[3] Alternative Service. If the notice cannot be given by means of personal
delivery, or if the tenant or purchaser cannot be found after diligent inquiry, the
notice may be delivered by means of:
[a] Certified mail, return receipt requested, at the last known address of the
tenant; and/or by
[b] Securing a copy of the notice to the door of the premises or other
prominent location on the premises and/or by posting a copy in a public
place and/or advertising in the Community newsletter or other publication
reasonably calculated to give actual notice and a copy sent by first class
mail to the occupant(s) at the premises and at the last known address of the
occupant(s).
[4] Date of Service. If the notice is mailed, for purposes of this section the date of
service is the next regular day for delivery of mail after the day when it was
mailed.
[a] It shall not be a defense to the efficacy of service for the occupant to claim
that he or she failed or refused to pick up the mail or that the notice was
returned to sender unclaimed.

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[5] Proof of Service. The person responsible for giving the notice must keep a
copy of the notice and shall record a proof of service giving the date, time, to
whom delivered and method of service, in accordance with this section. The
proof of service may be by affidavit or other manner recognized by law. If an
action is brought in the tribal court, the proof of service together with a copy of
the notice to quit shall be alleged in the complaint and a copy of both shall be
attached to the complaint.
[6] Method of Service in Other Pleadings. The method of service provided in this
subsection for service of the Notice to Quit shall apply for other initial
pleadings under this Code. Where a party responds or otherwise appears in
person or by counsel, service of subsequent pleadings or documents may be
made by first class mail addressed to any defendant or party who appears on
his or her own behalf or is represented by counsel.
4.7.117

Pre-Eviction Options.

(1) Negotiated Settlement. After a notice to quit is served upon an occupant, the landlord
and tenant may engage in discussions to avoid an eviction. The agreement to enter into
discussions will not affect the rights of the parties to obtain enforcement of the rental
agreement, or for eviction, nor delay or stay the proceedings if an action has been filed
in the tribal court, unless the parties reach an agreement, which shall be in writing, to
delay or stay the proceedings.
(2) Stay of Proceedings. If an action for enforcement of the rental agreement or for eviction
has been filed, the tribal judge, the magistrate, or other authorized court officer, may
issue an order to stay the proceedings if both parties agree in writing to negotiate in
good faith. The stay shall continue until a settlement is reached or one party informs the
court that negotiations have failed. A stay shall not operate as a dismissal.
(3) Settlement Options. In reaching an agreement, the parties may consider, but are not
limited to the following options:
(a) The parties may employ the assistance of counsel or lay advocates.
(b) If authorized by tribal or other applicable law, the parties may employ the use of a
mediator or arbitrator and submit themselves to binding mediation or arbitration.
(c) If authorized by tribal or other applicable law, the parties may barter for goods,
services, or may select any other means of securing a fair exchange of value for the
use and/or occupancy of the premises.
(d) The parties may agree to dismiss the matter in exchange for any agreement
reached, which shall be in writing; or
(e) The parties may agree to stipulate to a consent judgment to be entered by the court.
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4.7.118

Judicial Eviction Procedures; Summons and Complaint; Preliminary Hearing;
Formal Hearing.

(1) Summons and Complaint. At the time of service of the Notice to Comply or to Quit the
premises or at any time subsequent to delivery of the notice to quit, the landlord may
file a complaint in the tribal court requesting eviction or any other relief which the court
may deem just and proper. The complaint shall state:
(a) The names of the adult occupant(s) against whom the suit is brought.
(b) As applicable, a description of the rental agreement, and, if written, a copy of the
rental agreement, mortgage, promissory note, and/or, leasehold agreement.
(c) The address or location and legal description of the premises.
(d) The grounds for eviction.
(e) A statement that notice to quit the premises has been given in accordance with this
Code, including proof of service and the date by which all occupant(s) are to
comply and/or to quit possession.
(f) A statement of the relief requested, including claims for possession of the premises,
damages, fees, costs or any other special relief.
(g) If the landlord is an Indian Housing Authority administering a federally guaranteed
or funded housing project, a statement that all federal regulations have been
complied with prior to filing the eviction action.
(h) The complaint shall be signed, as appropriate, by the owner, landlord, or his or her
agent on information and belief.
(2) Court Action upon Filing of Complaint. When a complaint is filed in the tribal court it
shall be reviewed by the judge, magistrate or other authorized court official to
determine whether the complaint complies with Hannahville Indian Community Code
requirements. If compliant, the authorized court official shall issue and cause service of
a summons, together with a true copy of the complaint upon the defendant(s) requiring
the defendant(s) named in the complaint to appear before the court to enter a
preliminary plea to the complaint at the next available court date unless an earlier date
is ordered by the court. A summons shall also be provided to the plaintiff giving notice
of the date and time of the preliminary exam. Service upon each defendant shall be
made according to the provisions of § 4.7.116(6) of this Code. If the plaintiff is not the
Tribe, the Tribe shall be given actual notice as provided by § 4.7.103(2)(b), with a copy
to the tribal attorney. The Tribe and tribal attorney shall be given notice at every stage
of the proceedings.

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(3) Preliminary Hearing.
(a) Plea and Answer. If the defendant appears before the court at the preliminary
hearing in person or in writing to contest the complaint, the court shall set a hearing
date. The defendant’s response shall, orally or in writing, state any defenses or
factual disputes. If the defendant contests the allegations of the complaint at the
preliminary hearing he or she shall serve a written response upon all parties,
including the Tribe and/or its designated agent, within 7 days after the preliminary
hearing. If the defendant does not appear or file a written answer at the preliminary
hearing contesting the allegations the court shall deem the allegations as admitted
and shall enter an appropriate judgment in favor of plaintiff.
(b) Hearing Date. Unless an emergency exists, the court shall set a hearing date at the
first available regular court day following the preliminary hearing.
[1] Time Extensions. Upon request, which may be by oral or written motion by
either party, the court may, for good cause and/or upon payment of the
stipulated monies due and owing on the premises, allow an extension of time.
The court may refuse a request made by the defendant in the case of nuisance
or destruction of property unless stipulated to by the plaintiff. The court shall
not extend the date of the hearing if the complaint is based upon an act
reasonably alleged to constitute a serious danger to the public safety, health, or
peace.
(c) Payment of Monies during Eviction Process. The Court may, in its discretion and
upon motion of the landlord, order the tenant to pay into the court the monies for
the use and occupancy of the premises during the process of the eviction case.
(d) Discovery. The court shall enter reasonable orders for the completion of discovery.
Discovery shall be informal and shall be completed 7 calendar days before the date
set for formal hearing unless otherwise ordered by the court. The court may also
modify the scope of any discovery request upon reasonable notice to the petitioner
if a need to protect the rights of parties arises.
(4) Formal Hearing.
(a) Evidence. Evidence in proceedings under this Code shall be according to the
following provisions:
[1] All evidence may be admitted which is shown to be relevant, reliable and
material to the case.
[2] The Judge shall take fairness into consideration in relation to challenges
regarding the admissibility of evidence.

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[3] In regard to objections to evidence on the basis of hearsay, witness
competency, or similar evidentiary disputes, the court may consider the laws
and decisions of other jurisdictions in determining the admissibility of
evidence.
[4] In the discretion of the court, evidence may be excluded if its prejudicial effect
substantially outweighs its probative value.
[5] Upon its own motion or at the request of a party, the court may take judicial
notice of specific facts that are so certain as not to be subject to a reasonable
dispute.
[6] Where Federal Housing and Urban Development policies or similar federal
programs are in effect, the parties will employ the Federal Rules of Evidence
where mandated by federal regulations.
(b) Standard of Proof. The standard of proof in a formal hearing shall be a
preponderance of the evidence. The standard of proof for preliminary hearings at
which the court receives evidence shall be that of reasonable cause.
(c) Trial before court. All hearings filed pursuant to this Code shall be tried to the
court.
(d) Judgment; time for making after formal hearing; scope of relief.
[1] Time for entry of judgment. The Court shall enter a judgment as soon as
reasonably possible but not later than 7 calendar days after the formal hearing,
denying or granting relief to the parties.
[2] Scope of relief. The judgment may include, without limitation, any of the
following:
[a] Order the immediate eviction of an occupant(s) and delivery of the
premises to the landlord.
[b] Grant the payment of actual damages as provided in the agreement or this
Code.
[c] Establish a payment plan for the tenant, which includes garnishment of
wages.
[d] Order the parties to carry out any other obligation(s) required by law.
[e] Recalculate rent or damages to reflect the actual rent or damages due.

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[f] May order the tenant(s) to pay court costs to the tribal court in addition to
other monies owed to the landlord.
[g] Order the parties to attempt to negotiate and may ratify any agreement as
the decision of the Court, if fair and just.
[h] May provide any other relief provided by law or equity.
(e) Default Judgment. If a party fails to appear in court for the formal hearing the court
shall enter an appropriate default judgment according to the evidence which has
been submitted.
(f) Form of Judgment. The court shall state with specificity the relief which is granted
but need not state findings of fact or conclusions of law in support of the judgment
unless not otherwise stated in the court record.
(g) Execution of Judgment. Any judgment shall be immediately executed unless
otherwise indicated in the order. Upon delivery, a law enforcement officer of the
Hannahville Indian Community or an officer of the court appointed by the court for
such a purpose shall enforce the judgments and orders of the court. A report shall
be filed with the court confirming the execution. Any officer or person appointed to
execute the judgment or order who refuses, or in absence of good cause fails to
execute such judgment or order, may be liable for reasonable damages, costs,
and/or a suspension from employment.
(h) Stay of Execution of Judgment. If a judgment for possession of premises is entered
in favor of the landlord and the judgment has not been executed, the tenant may
apply for a stay of execution of the judgment or order if within 5 calendar days of
the judgment being executed, the following is established to the satisfaction of the
court:
[1] Good and reasonable grounds affecting the well-being of the occupant(s) are
stated; and
[2] There would be no substantial prejudice or injury to the prevailing party during
the period of stay; or
[3] Execution of the judgment would result in extreme hardship for the
occupant(s); or
[4] Following entry of judgment and order, monies are deposited into the court in
such amount as the Court deems reasonable and necessary to protect the
landlord or owner under the stay, which shall include, at a minimum, those
amounts due and owing under the judgment.

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(i) Appeals. Appeals under this chapter shall be according to the general tribal
appellate procedures.
4.7.119

Defenses to Eviction.

In granting relief and fashioning an appropriate remedy to an action for eviction, the court shall
consider the following defenses:
(1) The premises are untenable, uninhabitable, or the premises are in such a condition, due
to the fault of the landlord, that they present a serious hazard to human health and safety
and are not a mere inconvenience;
(2) The landlord has failed or refused to make necessary repairs, which are the landlord’s
responsibility, after a reasonable demand by the tenant to do so, and the repairs are
substantially necessary for the enjoyment of the premises.
(3) There are monies due and owing to the tenant because the tenant has made repairs that
are the responsibility of the landlord and the landlord has failed to make the repairs after
reasonable notice. It is a complete or partial defense only to the extent that the monies
owed to the tenant offset the monies owed for occupancy. A tenant may be evicted after
such a period if he or she refuses to pay the agreed to rental value for the premises.
(4) Due to the conduct of the landlord, there is injury to the occupant(s) in a way that equity
requires that relief to the landlord be denied or modified.
(5) Serious breaches of the Hannahville Indian Community Housing Codes on the part of
the landlord exist so that it would be unjust to grant the landlord a remedy.
(6) The landlord is evicting the occupant because of his or her race, gender, sexual
orientation, religion, age, marital status, or disability.
(7) Any other material or relevant fact the tenant might present that may explain why his or
her eviction is unjust or unfair.
4.7.120

Judgment/Order of Eviction/Order to Vacate and Surrender Premises

A judgment to vacate the premises shall be by written order of the court, effective when signed,
and shall be delivered to the tenant(s) in the following manner:
(1) Personally delivered to a legally competent occupant of suitable age and discretion by a
tribal law enforcement officer or other adult authorized by the court; or
(2) Personally delivered by an authorized adult to a person of suitable age and discretion at
the premises with a copy delivered by mail; or

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(3) If the notice cannot be given by means of personal delivery, or an occupant cannot be
found, the order may be delivered by means of:
(a) Certified Mail, return receipt requested, at the last known address of the tenant; or
(b) Securing by tape or similar means to the door of the premises in such a manner as
to make it obvious to anyone entering the premises or by posting notice in a public
place near the premises, and sending a copy by first class mail to the tenant at the
premises.
(c) If the order is mailed, for purposes of this section, the date of service is the next
regular day for delivery of mail after the day when it was mailed.
[1] It shall not be a defense to the efficacy of service for the tenant to claim that he
or she failed or refused to pick up the mail or that the order was returned to
sender unclaimed.
(4) Proof of Service. The person responsible for serving the order must keep a copy of the
order and shall record a proof of service giving the date, time, to whom delivered and
method of service, in accordance with this section. The proof of service may be by
affidavit or other manner recognized by law.
4.7.121

Forcible Eviction

(1) Where the court orders an eviction and the defendant or other occupants refuse to vacate
voluntarily by the effective date of that order, the defendant and other occupants may be
forcibly removed from the premises by a tribal law enforcement officer. At the hearing
where eviction is ordered, the court shall inform the defendant that if he or she does not
vacate the premises within the time given to vacate, the defendant and his or her
property may be subject to a forcible eviction.
(2) Following an eviction order, the court shall allow the Secretary of the appropriate
federal agency, lender, mortgagee, owner, or lessor or other controlling agent the right,
at reasonable times and hours, and with reasonable notice, to enter the premises for
purposes of inspection, services and valuation.
(3) Following forcible eviction of the defendant and/or occupants, the former occupants’
personal property shall be stored by the owner of the premises for at least 10 calendar
days, either on the premises or at another suitable location. In order to reclaim the
property, the former occupants shall pay reasonable costs of removal, storage, and any
outstanding judgments against the occupants. If the occupants do not claim the property
and pay the costs of storage within the 10 day period the owner is authorized to sell or
otherwise dispose of the property in order to recover these costs. Upon request by the
former occupants, the landlord shall provide them with information concerning the sale
or disposition. Any proceeds from a sale in excess of the removal, storage, and
judgment amount and costs shall be remitted to the former occupants. If there is no
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further debt due and owing to the landlord the former occupants may reclaim property
remaining after the sale. Repossession shall be done in a manner satisfactory to the
landlord.
4.6.122

No Self-Help Eviction

Except by the mutual consent of the parties, and except where tenant has abandoned the
premises, a landlord may not compel a tenant to vacate premises without first giving a notice to
quit and obtaining a court order as provided in this Code. In the discretion of the court and in
appropriate circumstances, punitive damages may be awarded to the tenant where landlord has
caused a forcible eviction resulting in a breach of the peace and has acted without authority of
the court.
4.7.123

Mortgages; Leasehold Mortgages; Lien Priority; Recording; Default; Notice;
Foreclosure Procedures; Complaint and Summons; Service; Judgment; Post
Hearing Relief

(1) Lien Priority. A leasehold or other mortgage recorded in accordance with the recording
procedures of this Code, including loans made, guaranteed, insured or held by a
governmental agency, shall have priority over any lien not perfected at the time of such
recording and any subsequent lien or claim, [excepting a lien or claim arising from a
tribal leasehold tax assessed after the recording of the mortgage.] Nothing in this
ordinance shall prevent any person or entity from recording a leasehold mortgage in
accordance with Michigan law or from filing a leasehold mortgage with the Bureau of
Indian Affairs. Provided, however, that Michigan law shall not be deemed to be
applicable law within the jurisdiction of the tribal court, nor shall the preceding
sentence be construed to indicate a preference for the application of Michigan law
where construction of tribal law by the court is necessary.
(2) Recording of Mortgage Loan Documents.
(a) Location of Records. The Magistrate or other authorized court official shall
maintain in the Tribal Court a system for the recording of leasehold mortgages and
such other documents as the Tribe may designate by resolution or as otherwise
provided by applicable law.
(b) Verification of Recording. Upon receipt of a leasehold mortgage or other document
received for recording the Magistrate or other authorized court official shall
immediately endorse upon the documents:
[1] The date and time of receipt of the leasehold mortgage or other document; and
[2] The filing number, as assigned by the authorized court official, which shall be
a unique number for each leasehold mortgage or other document received; and

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[3] The name of the authorized court official receiving the document for
recording.
(c) Certification of Record. Upon completion of the endorsements in subsection (b),
the authorized court official shall make a true and correct copy of the leasehold
mortgage or other document, and shall certify the copy as follows:
Hannahville Indian Community
Tribal Court

)
)

I certify that this is a true and correct copy of a document received for
recording on this date.
Given under my hand and seal this ____day of __________, 200_.
(seal)
_________________
Date

_____________________________
Signature

(d) Copy of Recorded Document. The authorized recording official shall maintain a
copy of the recorded documents in the tribal court recording system and shall
return the original leasehold mortgage or other recorded documents to the person or
entity which presented them for recording.
(e) Log of Recorded Documents. The Magistrate or other authorized court recording
official shall also maintain a log of each leasehold mortgage or other document
recorded in which there shall be entered:
[1] The name(s) of the mortgagor(s) of each leasehold mortgage, identified as
such; and
[2] The name(s) of the mortgagee(s) of each leasehold mortgage, identified as
such; and
[3] The name(s) of the grantor(s), grantee(s), or other designation of each party
named in any other documents presented for recording; and
[4] The date and time of receipt; and
[5] The filing number assigned by the recording official; and
[6] The name of the authorized recording official receiving the leasehold mortgage
or document for recording.

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(f) Public Inspection of Records. The certified copies of leasehold mortgages and other
recorded documents and the log maintained by the tribal recording official(s) shall
be made available for public inspection and copying pursuant to rules which will be
established to ensure the safekeeping of the documents.
(3) Default. Unless otherwise provided by applicable law and/or, the mortgage documents,
and if required in the case of federal direct, insured, or guaranteed loan programs, a
borrower/mortgagor shall be considered to be in default when he or she is at least 30
days past due on his or her mortgage payments or is in substantial violation of any
covenant under the mortgage for more than 30 days to the lender/mortgagee (i.e. 31st
day from the payment due date; or, on a pro rata basis, is, without permission of the
lender, more than 30 days late due to partial payments of the monthly payment). An
event of default as defined herein or pursuant to the mortgage documents, gives rise to
the Tribe’s right of first refusal as previously defined in this Code.
(4) Counseling. When a borrower/mortgagor is 30 days past due on his or her mortgage and
before any foreclosure action or activity is initiated, the lender/mortgagee shall
complete the following:
(a) Make a reasonable effort, which shall be documented, to arrange a face-to-face
interview with the borrower/mortgagor, which shall include at least 1 trip and 1
telephone call.
[1] Lender/mortgagee may appoint an agent to perform the services of arranging
and conducting the face-to-face interview specified in this action.
(5) Notice of Default, Counseling, 3 Installment Delinquency, and Foreclosure.
(a) Time and Contents of Notice. Before a borrower/mortgagor, becomes, either
consecutively or in the aggregate 3 installment payments delinquent on his or her
mortgage payments and at least 10 days before any foreclosure action is filed in the
tribal court, the lender, insurer, or guarantor, as appropriate, shall advise the
borrower/mortgagor in writing, (with a copy, if the Tribe is not the lender, to the
Tribe as provided by § 4.7.103(2)(b)), as follows:
[1] Advise the borrower/mortgagor that information regarding the loan and
default/delinquency will be given to credit bureaus.
[2] Advise the borrower/mortgagor of homeownership counseling
opportunities/programs available through the lender or other entities.
[3] Advise the borrower/mortgagor of the amounts then owing and of other
available assistance regarding the mortgage/default.

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[4] In addition to the foregoing requirements, if the lender is not the Tribe, the
lender/mortgagee shall complete the following additional requirements, with a
copy to the Tribe:
[a] Notify the borrower/mortgagor that if the leasehold mortgage remains past
due on three installment payments, the lender/mortgagee may ask the
applicable governmental agency to accept assignment of the leasehold
mortgage if this is an option of the governmental program;
[b] Notify the borrower/mortgagor of the qualifications for forbearance relief
from the lender/mortgagor, if any, and that forbearance relief may be
available from the government; and
[c] Provide the borrower/mortgagor with names and addresses of
governmental officials to whom further communications may be
addressed, if any.
(b) Method of Service of Notice. The method of service of the notices required by this
subsection shall comply with § 4.7.116(6) and of this Code.
(6) Foreclosure Procedures; Summons and Complaint; Preliminary Hearing; Formal
Hearing.
(a) Contents of complaint. If a borrower/mortgagor is past due consecutively or in the
aggregate 3 installment payments and the lender/mortgagee has complied with the
notices as required in §§ (3)-(5) of this section, the lender/mortgagee may
commence a foreclosure proceeding in the tribal court by filing a verified
complaint, with notice to the Tribe as provided in § 4.7.103(2)(b), which shall
contain the following:
[1] The name of the borrower/mortgagor and each person or entity claiming
through the borrower/mortgagor subsequent to the recording of the mortgage
loan, including each subordinate lienholder (except the Tribe with respect to a
claim for a tribal leasehold), as a defendant; and
[2] A legal description of the property subject to the mortgage loan as evidenced in
the mortgage documents; and
[3] A concise statement of the facts concerning the execution of the mortgage loan
and in the case of a leasehold mortgage the lease of the land; the facts
concerning the recording of the mortgage loan or the leasehold mortgage; the
facts concerning the alleged default(s) of the borrower/mortgagor; and such
other facts as may be necessary to constitute a cause of action; and
[4] True and correct copies of each promissory note, mortgage, deed of trust or
other recorded real property security instrument (each a “security instrument”)
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and any other documents relating to the property and if a leasehold mortgage, a
copy of the lease and any assignment of any of these documents; and
[5] Any applicable allegations concerning relevant requirements and conditions
prescribed in:
[a] Federal statutes and regulations; and
[b] Tribal codes, ordinances and regulations; and/or
[c] Provisions of the promissory note, security instrument and if a leasehold
mortgage, the lease.
(b) Court Action upon Filing of Complaint; Method of Service. Court action upon
filing of the complaint and method of service upon all defendants shall be as
prescribed by §§ 4.7.118(2) and 4.7.116(6) of this Code. Actual notice shall be
served upon the Tribal Council or its designate and the tribal attorney at every stage
of the proceedings.
(c) Preliminary Hearing.
[1] Plea and Answer. If the defendant appears before the court at the preliminary
hearing in person or in writing to contest the complaint, the court shall set a
hearing date. The defendant’s response shall, orally or in writing, state any
defenses or factual disputes. If the defendant contests the allegations of the
complaint at the preliminary hearing he or she shall serve a written response
upon all parties within 7 days after the preliminary hearing. If the defendant
does not appear or file a written answer at the preliminary hearing contesting
the allegations the court shall deem the allegations as admitted and shall enter
an appropriate judgment in favor of plaintiff.
[2] Formal Hearing Date; continuances. Unless an emergency exists, for other
good cause, the court shall set a hearing date at the first available regular court
day following the preliminary hearing, but shall not, without the agreement of
all parties, except for the borrower/mortgagor, grant a continuance for more
than 60 days from the date of service of the summons and complaint.
[3] Discovery; Formal Hearing; Evidence; Standard of Proof; Trial to Court. The
court shall apply the procedures set forth in §§ 4.7.118(3)(d) and (4)(a), (b),
and (c) to foreclosure actions.
[a] Cure of Default. Prior to the entry of a judgment of foreclosure, any
borrower/mortgagor, the Tribe, or a subordinate lienholder, may cure the
default(s) under the mortgage by making a full payment of the
delinquency to the lender/mortgagee and all reasonable legal and court
costs incurred in foreclosing on the property. Any subordinate lienholder
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who has cured a default shall thereafter have included in its lien the
amount of all payments made by such subordinate lienholder to cure the
default(s), plus interest on such amounts at the rate stated in the note for
the mortgage. Unless otherwise provided by applicable law and subject to
the Tribe’s right of first refusal, there shall be no right of redemption in
any leasehold mortgage foreclosure proceeding.
[4] Judgment; Scope of Relief. If the alleged default has not been cured at the time
of formal hearing and the tribal court finds for the lender/mortgagee, the tribal
court shall enter judgment as follows:
[a] Foreclosing the interest of the borrower/mortgagor and each other
defendant, including subordinate lienholders, in the mortgaged property;
and
[b] Subject to the Tribe’s right of first refusal, granting title to the
lender/mortgagee or the lender’s designated assignee. In the case of a
leasehold mortgage, the lease and the leasehold estate will be assigned to
the lender /mortgagee or the lender’s designated assignee, subject to the
following provisions:
(i) The lender shall give the Tribe the right of first refusal on any
acceptable offer to purchase the lease and the lessee’s leasehold
interest in the property described in the lease, which is subsequently
obtained by the lender or lender’s designated assignee.
(ii) The lender or lender’s designated assignee may only transfer, sell or
assign the lease and lessee’s leasehold interest in the property
described in the lease to a tribal member, the Tribe, or the tribal
housing authority.
(iii) The mortgagee shall have the right to convey the leasehold interest to
the Secretary of a governmental agency without providing the right of
first refusal to the Tribe only if required to do so as provided by
federal law.
[c] Ordering repossession of the premises by the eviction of all occupants, if
the occupants have not surrendered the premises, and such other remedies
as are appropriate according to law and equity, which may include,
without limitation, the following:
(i) Back payments, unpaid utilities, and any charges due the Tribe, the
tribal housing authority, other public housing authority; and
(ii) Any and all amounts secured by the Leasehold Mortgage that are due
the lender or federal agency; and
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(iii) Damages to the premises caused by the defendants, other than
ordinary wear and tear.
(iv) The tribal court shall have the authority, except as against the Tribe,
to award to the prevailing party its costs and reasonable attorney’s
fees.
[d] No Merger of Estates. There shall be no merger of estates by reason of the
execution of a Lease or a Leasehold Mortgage or the assignment or
assumption of the same, including an assignment adjudged by the tribal
court, or by operation of law, except as such merger may arise upon
satisfaction of the Leasehold Mortgage.
[e] Enforcement. Upon issuance of an Order of Repossession and/or Eviction,
tribal law enforcement officers shall help the parties Entitled to
repossession by evicting the occupants from the unlawfully occupied
premises. In all cases involving an outside lender, who is not the Tribe or a
tribal housing authority, or a federal agency which has loaned, insured or
guaranteed a loan, the order of repossession and/or eviction shall be
enforced no later than 45 days after a preliminary or formal hearing in
which the court finds against the borrower/mortgagor.
[f] Appeals. Appeals under this section shall be handled in accordance with
the general tribal appellate procedures.
4.7.124

Sovereign Immunity of Tribe.

Neither the filing of a petition for intervention by the Tribe, nor the granting of a petition of
intervention by the court shall operate as a waiver of the sovereign immunity of the Tribe, except
as may be expressly authorized by the Tribe.
CERTIFICATION
The foregoing Hannahville Indian Community Eviction, Issuance and Foreclosure of Mortgages
Code, including procedures for the foreclosure of leasehold mortgages was enacted by the Tribal
Council of the Hannahville Indian Community in regular session on the 2nd day of July 2001, by
vote of 9 for, 0 opposed, and 0 abstaining, at a duly called meeting at which a quorum was
present.
_____________________________
Kenneth Meshigaud, Chairperson
Elaine Meshigaud, Vice-Chairperson

___________________________
Donna Boda, Secretary

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Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Ahannahville%3A8cb0afa4c5ccdebb. Public record. Not legal advice.