Walk It Through: The Eviction Papers
Two service attempts, five days to answer, a trial on short notice, and a judgment.
A deputy comes by once, finds no one home, and returns a week later. This time the papers are posted on the door and mailed.
Two things a person in this spot might do. Picking one shows what the law says about it.
One eviction for unpaid rent. A defense of retaliation, service by publication, a mobile home owner and an appeal are not worked through here.
A practice walkthrough, not a prediction of how any real one will go. Legal information, not legal advice.
Words this turns on
Terms with a legal meaning that is narrower than the everyday one. Each links to the definition and the authority behind it.
- Forcible entry and detainerThe court action to recover possession of property, used to evict a tenant who holds over or leaves rent unpaid for three days after it is due.
- Holding overStaying after the lease ends. If the landlord accepts rent, the lease is presumed renewed on the same terms for the same time, not exceeding one year.