As a tenant that has received a notice to leave the property it can seem like the world has turned upside down. This is particularly true if the reason for the eviction is inaccurate or if you the landlord did not follow the correct process for eviction in Los Angeles and Long Beach.
The First Step
The first step of any tenant eviction in Los Angeles or in Long Beach starts when the landlord gives notice that he or she is requesting that you move out. In most cases if it is due to something that can be fixed, such as catching up on the rent, a specific timeline will be given to allow you to do this. It may be as little as three days, but during that time if you can correct the problem the eviction will cease.
This type of notice is known as a 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit. This can only be for rent and cannot include other fees that may be behind in payment. There are very specific dates, times and information that has to be contained on this first step in the eviction process.
The second option for non-specialized types of property is the 3-Day Notice to Perform Covenants or Quit, which allows the tenant to have a chance to fix a problem such as damage or failing to keep the unit clean. The third option is a 3-Day Notice to Quit which typically means that it is not something that can be fixed and is a more serious issue.
Getting Served
If you fail to correct the problem, pay the rent or move out, the landlord will then file an Unlawful Detainer lawsuit with the court in Los Angeles or Long Beach. At this point in the eviction you will be served with the court paperwork. This can be done personally, by substitute service after trying to do it personally, or by posting and mailing if approved by the court.
If you choose to fight the eviction in Los Angeles or Long Beach you then have to file your response to the eviction with the court in 5 days. This must be done on the correct forms and it has to be completed accurately to be accepted by the court. Once this is done you will receive a notice to appear in court and have a judge hear your case or opt for a jury trial.
