An unlawful detainer action is more than filing paperwork and getting a rubber stamp from the court system. Once a termination notice expires and a resident does not move out, the matter becomes a civil lawsuit governed by strict procedural rules, evidentiary requirements, and court deadlines. While unlawful detainers are intended to move more quickly than most civil cases, the process is often more complex than housing providers expect, and even minor missteps can result in costly delays.

This webinar provides a practical behind-the-scenes look at California’s unlawful detainer process, beginning after a termination notice has expired. Rather than teaching participants how to prosecute an eviction themselves, the session is designed to help housing providers understand what to expect when working with their attorney, why the process unfolds the way it does, and how they can help avoid common pitfalls that may complicate or delay a case.

Topics include:

  • Why an unlawful detainer is a real civil lawsuit—not simply an eviction filing
  • What happens after a termination notice expires, from filing the complaint through sheriff lockout
  • Reasons unlawful detainer cases are delayed, including service issues, motions, discovery, jury demands, and local court procedures
  • Common mistakes housing providers can make before and during litigation, and how to avoid them
  • Why settlement discussions sometimes make good business sense, even when a landlord has a strong case
  • What happens after judgment, including the writ of possession, sheriff lockout, and post-possession obligations

Speakers: 

Whitney Prout, Executive Vice President, Legal Affairs, California Apartment Association

Monica Deka, Compliance and Legislative Counsel, California Apartment Association


Live Webinar Cost: $45 CAA Member/ $85 Non-Member
Live & On-Demand Webinar Cost: $55 CAA Member/ $95 Non-Member
Estimated Course Length: 1 Hr.

Purchase: Live Webinar
Purchase: Live & On-Demand Webinar

Qualifies for 1 Unit of CCRM Continuing Education Credit for current CCRM Certified Individuals.

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