Getting served with an eviction notice in California is stressful — but you have rights and deadlines, and acting fast matters. An eviction is formally called an unlawful detainer (UD), and the process moves quickly. Here is what to expect and what to do.
Step 1: Read the notice carefully
Before a landlord can file in court, they must serve a written notice — commonly a 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit, a 3-Day Notice to Cure, or a 30/60/90-Day Notice to Vacate. The clock starts the day after it is served. Note the type and the deadline.
Step 2: Know your options during the notice period
If it is a pay-or-quit notice and you pay the full amount within the window, the landlord generally cannot proceed. If you cannot pay or dispute the amount, the case may move to court. Do not ignore it — ignoring a notice is the most common way tenants lose by default.
Step 3: The Summons and Complaint (UD-100)
If the landlord files, you will be served a Summons (SUM-130) and Complaint (UD-100). From that point you usually have only 5 days to file a written response with the court. Miss it and the landlord can request a default judgment against you.
Step 4: File your Answer (UD-105)
The Answer (UD-105) is where you raise your defenses — improper notice, habitability problems, retaliation, payment made, or errors in the complaint. Filing it preserves your right to a trial. There may also be a fee waiver (FW-001) if you cannot afford the filing fee.
Step 5: Trial and judgment
UD cases are expedited. A trial can be set within about 20 days of a request. Being prepared with the correct paperwork and evidence is critical because the timeline is short.
How Curbside Legal helps
Whether you are a tenant who needs to respond fast or a landlord who needs a clean filing, we prepare the complete unlawful detainer packet — court-ready and on time. Tenant Answer packages and full landlord eviction packages are available. See pricing or start your intake.
Curbside Legal is a legal document preparation service, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. Court filing fees are separate.