Wyo. Stat. Ann. §§ 1-21-403, 1-21-1001 to 1-21-1017, 1-21-1201 to 1-21-1211, 1-21-1301 to 1-21-1304, 1-21-1401 to 1-21-1403 § 1-21-1001
Jurisdiction of circuit courts.
Operative Text
1-21-1001. Jurisdiction of circuit courts. Any circuit court within the judicial district may inquire against those who make unlawful and forcible entry into lands and tenements and detain the same, or against those who, having a lawful and peaceable entry into lands or tenements, unlawfully or by force hold the same. If it is found that an unlawful and forcible entry was made and the lands or tenements are held by force, or that after a lawful entry the lands are held unlawfully, the judge shall require restitution to the complaining party.
Wyoming Statute § 1-21-1001 establishes that circuit courts within a judicial district have authority to hear cases involving unlawful or forcible entry onto land or rental property, as well as cases where someone who entered lawfully is now holding the property unlawfully. The provision covers two distinct situations: a forcible or unlawful initial entry, and a lawful entry that later becomes an unlawful holdover. When a court finds that either situation has occurred, the judge is required to order that possession of the property be returned to the party who brought the complaint.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1001, Wyoming circuit courts are the proper venue for landlords seeking to recover possession of their property from occupants who either entered without right or who remain after their right to occupy has ended. A compliant property owner generally documents the nature of the tenancy, any notices provided, and the circumstances of the occupant's entry or continued possession before initiating a court proceeding. When a court finds in the landlord's favor under this provision, restitution of the premises is the required remedy.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1001 governs the court process through which possession disputes over land and rental property are resolved in Wyoming circuit courts, and it applies to tenants as well as landlords. A tenant who believes a court proceeding under this provision has been initiated improperly—for example, because the entry was lawful and the holdover is disputed—may raise that as a defense in the circuit court proceeding. Tenants facing such actions may wish to consult a tenant-rights organization or legal aid provider familiar with Wyoming's eviction procedures to understand the options available to them.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 26, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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