Understanding Unlawful Detainer (Eviction) Actions in California: What You Need to Know

Legal insights from United Legal Pros — reliable, affordable support for landlords, tenants, and law firms alike.

When a landlord needs to legally regain possession of their property from a tenant in California, they must file an Unlawful Detainer (UD) action — commonly known as an eviction lawsuit. It’s a time-sensitive, highly technical legal process that begins with the right filing and ends (ideally) with a judgment. But one misstep, especially with proper service, can delay or derail the entire case.

At United Legal Pros, we help both landlords and attorneys navigate the UD process efficiently and in full compliance with California law. Here’s what you should know:

1. Filing the Complaint: The First Step Toward Eviction

To initiate a UD case, the landlord must file a complaint in the appropriate California court. Alongside the complaint, the court will issue a summons, which formally notifies the tenant of the legal action and directs them to respond within a short period—usually 5 days.

We help landlords complete and file these documents properly, and assist legal professionals with volume case processing or clerical overflow.

2. Serving the Tenant: Why Process Service Matters

One of the most critical parts of a UD action is serving the tenant with the complaint and summons. Without proper service, the case can’t legally move forward.

California law allows for three service methods:

• Personal Service: A process server, sheriff, or other authorized professional hands the documents directly to the tenant.

• Substituted Service: If the tenant is unavailable after reasonable attempts, the documents may be left with someone of suitable age at the residence and then mailed.

• Posting and Mailing: If all else fails, the documents can be posted on the property and mailed to the tenant.

  
  

Pro tip: Improper service is one of the most common reasons UD cases get dismissed. We work with registered process servers and help clients track and prove diligent efforts.

3. Deadlines Matter: Short Timelines, Fast Action

Unlawful Detainer cases move fast. After being served, tenants typically have only five calendar days to file a response. If they fail to respond on time, the landlord can request a default judgment and move forward with the eviction.

Because of these tight timeframes, accurate service and filing are critical. Our team can help ensure everything is done right — the first time.

4. Unlawful Detainer Assistants (UDAs): How We Can Help

In California, a Registered Unlawful Detainer Assistant (UDA) is authorized to help landlords (and sometimes tenants) complete legal forms and navigate the UD process — without giving legal advice.

At United Legal Pros, our UDAs are bonded, registered, and experienced. We help:

• Prepare and file UD complaints

• Coordinate service of process

• Assist with default judgments or trial prep

• Support law firms and property managers handling high-volume UD filings

  
  

We do not provide legal advice, but we work alongside attorneys or independently for clients who need help completing paperwork quickly and correctly.

5. What About Tenants? Legal Help Is Critical

If you’re a tenant who’s been served with a UD complaint, your time to act is short. You may only have five days to respond — and failing to respond could lead to a lockout. Tenants should strongly consider speaking with an attorney or visiting an Unlawful Detainer Advisory Clinic in their county for legal advice.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Navigate It Alone

Whether you're a landlord trying to recover possession, a tenant needing help understanding your rights, or a legal professional managing a high caseload, United Legal Pros is here to support you. Our affordable and reliable document services ensure your paperwork is accurate, your deadlines are met, and your case is ready for court.

📞 Need help with an eviction case? Contact United Legal Pros today to learn more about how we can assist with Unlawful Detainer actions in California.