Eviction court process

If the case goes to court, it moves fast. Most courts use a special quick process for evictions. It can finish in days or weeks. Go to every hearing.

Losing in court does not mean you leave that same day. Only a law enforcement officer can carry out the removal. Your landlord cannot do it alone.

If the landlord files, an officer brings you the court papers. The papers show the date, time, and place of your hearing. Most hearings happen 10 to 21 days after the landlord files.

If you do not appeal, the landlord can ask for a writ of possession. A writ of possession is the court order that lets a constable remove you. The court cannot issue it before the 6th day after the judgment. The constable must post a warning on your door at least 24 hours before removing you.

If the landlord proves the eviction case in court, the judgment can include the home, damages, and unpaid rent. 5 days later, the landlord can ask for a writ of possession. A writ of possession is the court's lockout order. It is served within 48 hours and carried out on the 11th day after service.