Eviction cases in California
This guide explains the eviction process (called unlawful detainer) for residential evictions only. It includes steps for:
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Landlords: How to start an eviction case
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Tenants: What to do if you get a Notice or court papers
đź“Ś Note: This guide is not for commercial evictions (like businesses or stores). Talk to a lawyer if you need
After the eviction trial decision
If a judge or jury decides you won your trial, your next step is to fill out some court forms to start the process of getting the tenant to move out and collecting money if the tenant owes you any.
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If the judge or jury decides you lost your trial, your tenant is allowed to stay in the home and you may have to make repairs and possibly pay
If you're not on the lease or rental agreement
The landlord can include you in an eviction case even if your name is not on the lease or rental agreement. If this happens, you have some options.
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- If the landlord knows your name
- If the landlord doesn't know your name
- If the eviction case is just starting
- If the sheriff puts a Writ of Possession on the door
- Key
What happens if you lose your eviction case
If the judge decides your landlord can evict you, the court will issue a judgment. This can happen after a trial or if you didn’t respond to the case. Here’s what to expect and what you can do next.
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