Case Study: Overcoming ‘Freeman on the Land’ Protesters to Take Possession of Residential Property

Author: Chris Miller, Property Services Operations Manager

In recent years, Wilson & Roe has dealt with a growing number of cases involving various anarchist groups. One group that we are now encountering more often is the ‘freeman on the land’ (FOTL) movement. For those who aren’t familiar, these individuals commonly believe that they are exempt from any laws they have not personally consented to and are therefore not liable for any resulting debts, including mortgages and council tax.

With the cost-of-living crisis causing financial hardship for many, it is easy to see how people can fall under the influence of a group that tells them large sums of money do not need to be paid.  

The movement has gained significant momentum in the UK, particularly through social media, with members from across the nation rallying at eviction sites in an effort to halt attempts at enforcement or retaking property. The actions of these individuals and groups provide a challenge, but the expertise and professionalism of our team means that we always achieve the best outcome for our clients.

Preparation is Essential

One recent case involving the FOTL movement took us to the London area where we were tasked with regaining possession of a property on behalf of a client. After delivering a notice of eviction to the occupant of the property, it became apparent who we were dealing with.

The movement mobilised and our office was bombarded with phone calls and threats. In an attempt to deter enforcement of the Court order, members of the FOTL posted videos on social media showing the large number of protestors planning to prevent the eviction from taking place.

But we were one step ahead. Our expertise and the intel gathered about the occupants meant that we were aware of the likely involvement of this group and had already begun preparing for the eviction. As High Court Enforcement Officers, we have the authority to command the police to attend with us for an operation of this nature. This is a key component to our success.

We had also been made aware by our client that the defendant was potentially vulnerable. With this in mind, and the knowledge that the FOTL would almost certainly be present on the eviction date, a plan was formulated to ensure that not only was the possession a success, but that the safety of all individuals was ensured and protected.

The Operation

No two jobs are the same for our team and careful preparation gives us the best chance of success. This means considering other factors that could impact an eviction such as the access points, crowd management and events in the locality. Following several meetings with the police, it was decided that a number of experienced public order officers would accompany us on the job to support the safety of our enforcement agents along with the other security personnel.

A suitable time was determined for this eviction in order to reduce the likelihood of others attending to disrupt the process.

It turned out that gaining possession of the property wouldn’t be the most difficult aspect of this job; our biggest challenge came from the FOTL activists and their multiple attempts to break in and reclaim the property by force. By working with our trusted security partners, we were able to ensure the building was protected round the clock until it was sold.

Although an eviction is usually the last chapter of a long process and shouldn’t come as a surprise, we understand that enforcement action is a stressful and sensitive matter for all involved. In this case, the defendant’s circumstances and potential vulnerability meant that we provided them with as much support as possible whilst working under pressure to secure the property without delay. This job was another successful operation, but without dedicating the time and resources that were needed, the outcome could have been very different.

As the freeman on the land movement grows, collaboration and courage are essential and that’s why we continuously invest to ensure we are steps ahead. If you believe your property is being occupied by individuals with ties to this group, acting with speed and efficiency is essential in preventing the challenges from mounting.

We treat every case on an individual basis and with the utmost discretion and sensitivity and are always on hand to guide our clients through the unique challenges of their cases. Please feel free to contact me on 0161 925 1800 to discuss your needs and how Wilson & Roe can help you.