Eviction notice: next steps

Step 1 — Identify the document

Notice to pay rent or quit (in California usually 3 days, not counting weekends and court holidays): pay the amount stated within the period and the tenancy continues. If the amount is wrong, or includes fees that are not rent, the notice may be defective — get advice.
Notice to cure or quit: fix the stated lease violation within the period.
Notice to quit / termination of tenancy (30, 60 or 90 days): the landlord is ending the tenancy. In most California tenancies of more than a year, the landlord must state a just cause, and for some causes must pay relocation assistance. Los Angeles and other cities add stronger rules.
Summons and complaint (unlawful detainer): the landlord has filed in court. You have a very short number of court days to file a written response. If you do not, the landlord wins by default. This is the deadline that matters most. Contact us or legal aid the same day.
Notice from the sheriff: a judgment has been entered and a lock-out date set. Very little time remains; contact legal aid immediately.

Step 2 — Write down the dates

The date the notice was served, how it was served (handed to you, posted on the door, mailed), and the deadline it states. Photograph the notice front and back. Keep the envelope.

Step 3 — Know what the landlord may not do

Change the locks, remove doors or windows, shut off utilities, or remove your belongings. This is illegal 'self-help' eviction and carries penalties.
Threaten to report or disclose immigration status to make you leave. California law prohibits it.
Retaliate because you requested repairs or complained to an agency.
Refuse rent during the notice period to manufacture a default (get advice if rent is refused; keep proof you offered it).

Step 4 — Find the money, if it is about rent

Emergency rental assistance exists in most counties through county programs, community organisations and, in some cities, tenant-protection funds. Programs open and close; we keep track and help you apply.
The Hardship Fund can bridge when a small amount prevents an eviction. Hardship Relief.
Negotiate: many landlords accept a written payment agreement rather than a court case. Put it in writing, and get advice before signing anything that waives your rights.

Step 5 — Get legal help before court

Free tenant counselling and legal aid exist across Los Angeles County, and the city's right-to-counsel programs cover many low-income tenants facing eviction. Legal aid can spot a defective notice, negotiate, and represent you. Bring: the notice, the lease, proof of rent paid, any repair requests, and any messages with the landlord.

Step 6 — If a court case is filed

Respond in writing within the deadline — this is not optional. Legal aid or a self-help center at the courthouse can help you file the answer, and fee waivers exist.
Attend every date. Interpreters can be requested.
Consider a settlement that gives you time to move, forgives arrears, or keeps the case off your record — legal aid negotiates these regularly.

Step 7 — If you have to move

A negotiated move-out with time and, where due, relocation assistance is far better than a judgment. Ask about masking the case so it does not follow you to the next application. Your deposit must be returned with an itemised statement within 21 days.

How the Foundation helps

Reading the notice with you the same day and explaining the deadline.
Finding what rental assistance is open in your county and applying with you.
Connecting you to tenant counselling and legal aid before court.
A bridge through the Hardship Fund when a small amount prevents a large harm.
Follow-up until the housing is stable.