Unlawful Detainer Response Time

Summary

In California, you must respond to an unlawful detainer within 5 days if served in person, or 15 days if served by mail or posting. Posting is used after multiple failed personal service attempts. Ensure timely response to avoid default judgment.

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I’m going to be served a summons for an unlawful detainer in California. I was wondering what the response time would be depending on how they serve it.
Hello ****, in California, once you are served an unlawful detainer (eviction notice):
- If served in person, you have 5 days to respond.
- If mailed, you have 15 days from the date it was mailed to respond.
Remember to respond within the stipulated time to avoid default judgement.
With posting it on the house be considered in person
Hello ****, posting the notice on the house is considered "service by posting," not personal service. In California, this is allowed when other methods fail. After posting, it should be mailed to you, extending your response time to 15 days from the mailing date.
OK. I just wanted to know thank you very much.
You're welcome, ****! If you have any other questions in the future, don't hesitate to reach out. Wishing you the best with your situation.
do you know how many times I’ll try to do it in person before moving onto a posting or mailing
In California, before resorting to service by posting, attempts at personal service should be made. The law does not specify a number, but generally, multiple attempts (usually *-*) at different times of day are advisable.
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You're welcome, ****! If you need further legal assistance or have more questions, feel free to ask. Remember, it's crucial to respond within the legal timeframe once you've been served. Good luck!
Can they decide to just do posting and or mailing instead of in person
In California, the law requires attempts at personal service before moving to posting or mailing. However, the number of attempts is not specifically defined. It's typically after multiple unsuccessful tries that they resort to posting or mailing.
OK thank you
You're welcome, ****! If you have more questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out. Good luck with your situation.