Collection: EVICTION

Eviction law governs the formal, legal process by which a landlord may recover possession of rented property from a tenant who has violated the lease terms, failed to pay rent, or remained after a lease ends. The process starts not with a court filing, but with a formal Notice to Quit (such as a 3-Day Notice for non-payment or a 30/60-Day Notice for termination). If the tenant does not vacate, the landlord files a lawsuit, known as an Unlawful Detainer. The tenant's defense centers on filing a timely Answer and often using defensive motions (like a Motion to Quash or a Motion to Stay) to challenge the landlord's compliance with strict state and local procedures. The court quickly holds a hearing to determine who has the legal right to possession. If the landlord wins, the final judgment is a Writ of Possession, which authorizes law enforcement (sheriff or marshal) to forcibly remove the tenant and restore the property to the landlord. Throughout the process, the focus is less on complex evidence and more on adhering strictly to required statutory timelines and legal forms.