Court Process

The court process refers to the legal proceedings that landlords and tenants may use to resolve disputes that cannot be settled through informal negotiation or mediation. The specific court procedures and requirements vary by jurisdiction, but typically involve filing a complaint or petition with the appropriate court, serving the other party with legal documents, attending hearings or trials, and presenting evidence and arguments before a judge or jury. Common types of landlord-tenant court cases include eviction proceedings, small claims actions for unpaid rent or damages, and habitability or retaliation claims. The court process can be complex, time-consuming, and costly, and may result in a judgment that is enforceable through legal means such as wage garnishment or property seizure. Tenants who cannot afford an attorney may be eligible for free or low-cost legal assistance through local legal aid organizations or court-appointed counsel.