Eviction Index

Find a specific page or step-by-step instructions within our eviction case section.

Eviction basics

Evictions in California

Eviction protections for unpaid rent

Mediation in Eviction cases

Legal and housing resources

See related topics:

Get a fee waiver
Tenants' rights in a foreclosure

For tenants

Case overview

1. Notice

Get Notice

Types of Notices

Options when you get a Notice
2. Eviction case starts

You receive Summons and Complaint

Info: If you're not listed in the Complaint

If you default

3. Respond to the Court

Fill out Answer

Common defenses

Serve Answer

File Answer
4. A judge decides

What to expect in an eviction trial

5. After a judge decides

What happens if you lose

Ask for more time to move

Ask to set aside

For landlords

Case overview

1. Notice

Give Notice

Types of Notices

Deliver Notice

After you give your tenant Notice
2. Start an eviction case

Fill out forms

File Summons and Complaint

Serve Summons

Substituted service

3. Ask for a trial date or default

Ask for trial or default judgment

Ask for a default judgment for money owed

How to dismiss your case
4. Go to trial

What to expect in an eviction trial

5. After a judge decides

After the eviction trial decision