Evict My Tenant
A lawful, step-by-step path from the first notice to getting your property back.
Eviction rules are different in every state.
Choose your state to see its notices, deadlines and court.
Eviction Form Preparation Wizard
Your state's required notices, proofs of service, complaint and official court forms — filled in, with every deadline counted. PDF and Word.
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Free Eviction Guide
Answer a few questions and get a free personalized checklist, key dates and your court's details.
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Learn the law
Plain-English guides to notices, court and just-cause laws, and a guide for every state.
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Eviction Summons
Find the official summons form for your county, where we have it on file.
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Eviction Complaint
Find the official complaint (unlawful detainer / possession) form for your county.
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Court details
Clerk address, phone and fax for the county where your rental is.
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The eviction process in eight steps
- 1
Check your grounds
Non-payment, a lease violation, the end of a lease or a no-fault termination where the law allows it.
- 2
Serve a written notice
The right notice, for the right number of days, served in a way your state allows.
- 3
Wait out the notice period
If the tenant pays or fixes the problem in time, the tenancy usually continues.
- 4
File the summons & complaint
With the court clerk in the county where the property is, and pay the filing fee.
- 5
Serve the court papers
Usually by a sheriff, marshal, constable or process server.
- 6
Attend the hearing
Bring the lease, notice, proof of service, ledger and photos.
- 7
Get the judgment & writ
Only law enforcement can carry out the removal.
- 8
Deposit & belongings
Account for the deposit and any property left behind as your state requires.
Landlord FAQs
Can I change the locks or shut off utilities to get a tenant out?
No. So-called self-help evictions are illegal in virtually every state. You must win a court case, and only a sheriff, marshal or constable can carry out the removal.
How much notice do I have to give?
It depends on your state and the reason. Non-payment notices are often 3 to 14 days; ending a month-to-month tenancy commonly needs at least one full rental period. Check your state's statute before serving.
Where do I file an eviction?
Usually in the civil, housing or justice court for the county where the property is located. Our Court Details pages list clerk addresses and phone numbers by county.
Do I need a lawyer?
Many landlords file on their own, but some courts require a business entity (such as an LLC) to be represented by an attorney. An attorney is strongly recommended for contested cases.
Looking for your county’s court? See court details by state and county.
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