Practice Areas
Eviction Defense (Unlawful Detainer)
Unlawful detainer is the legal name for eviction proceedings. It is critical that tenants who are served with a summons and complaint file their initial responsive pleading within 10 court days after being served. If the tenant fails to file an answer within the deadline, then the landlord can file a request for default and effectively win their case against the tenant automatically. If you're facing an eviction, it's crucial to understand your rights as a tenant. In California, a landlord generally must follow the legal eviction process, and tenants have the right to respond to an unlawful detainer case.
What this means
Common situations
- You received a 3-day, 30-day, 60-day, or other notice to move
- You were served with an unlawful detainer lawsuit
- The landlord lacked a valid lawful basis to evict
- The notice is defective because it does not comply with local or state law
- Your landlord accepted rent after the notice expired
- You believe the eviction is retaliation for requesting repairs or asserting tenant rights
- Serious habitability problems have not been repaired
- You believe the eviction is discriminatory
- You may be protected by rent control or other state or local eviction protections
- Your landlord did not follow the required notice or eviction procedures
How Teshale Law can help
Teshale Law helps tenants evaluate the notice, court papers, rental history, payment records, communications, repair issues, and other facts that may affect an eviction case. The goal is to identify potential defenses, explain the tenant’s options, and respond strategically to the landlord’s claims.
Depending on the situation, representation may include preparing and filing a response to an unlawful detainer lawsuit, asserting available defenses, negotiating with the landlord, and representing the tenant through litigation when appropriate. When possible, the goal is to help tenants remain in their homes. If moving becomes the preferred option, Teshale Law can negotiate the timing, financial terms, and conditions of the move so tenants can leave on their own terms.