Alabama Eviction Process Timeline: Step-by-Step for Renters

If you rent in Alabama and you're facing eviction or worried you might get an eviction notice, it's important to know how the eviction process works, what your rights are, and what each step involves. This guide breaks down the entire Alabama eviction timeline, making the rules clear and showing what to expect at each stage—from warning notices to court proceedings and, finally, moving out or challenging an eviction. You'll also find links to official forms and the agencies involved.

Understanding Eviction in Alabama: Key Points

Eviction is a legal process through which a landlord seeks to remove a tenant from a rental property. In Alabama, eviction rules are set by the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act^[1]. Only the court—not your landlord—can order you to leave. If you receive any eviction documents or threats, always look for official court paperwork and check deadlines carefully.

Alabama Eviction Process Timeline

The eviction timeline can move quickly in Alabama. Here's an overview of what typically happens if a landlord wants a tenant to leave:

• 1. Written notice (such as a "7-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate")
• 2. Waiting period for tenant response or action
• 3. Landlord files a court complaint if issue is not fixed
• 4. Court serves papers to the tenant ("Summons and Complaint")
• 5. Tenant has time to respond or appear in court
• 6. Court hearing takes place
• 7. Judge decides—issues an "Order for Eviction" if landlord wins
• 8. Sheriff serves a "Writ of Possession" and carries out physical eviction after a short window (usually 7 days)

Step 1: The Written Eviction Notice

Before filing for eviction in court, a landlord must first send an official notice:

• For nonpayment of rent: A "7-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate" is required. This informs the renter they have 7 calendar days to pay overdue rent or move out.
• Other lease violations: A "7-Day Notice to Cure or Vacate" (for fixable violations) or a "7-Day Unconditional Quit Notice" (for serious or repeated violations).

These notices may be hand-delivered, posted on your door, or mailed.

Step 2: Time to Fix the Problem or Move

After receiving notice, tenants generally have 7 calendar days to either:

• Pay all owed rent (if the notice is about nonpayment)
• Fix the lease violation (for curable issues)
• Move out voluntarily

If you take the required action within this period, the landlord should not proceed with eviction.

Step 3: Filing with the Court (Unlawful Detainer Action)

If you don’t comply with the written notice, the landlord can start a court case. In Alabama, this is called an "unlawful detainer action." The landlord must file at the local District or Circuit Court in the county where the property is located. The tribunal responsible is the Alabama Unified Judicial System (District Court Civil Division).^[2]

Relevant Official Forms in Alabama

• Eviction Complaint (Form C-60): Used by the landlord to file for eviction in district court.
  Example: If rent hasn’t been paid and the 7-day notice period has expired, the landlord files this form in the District Court.
  View Alabama Eviction Complaint Form
• Summons (Form C-34): The court will issue and serve this to notify you of the eviction case. You will receive this after the landlord files the complaint. View Alabama Civil Summons Form
• Answer to Eviction (Form C-70): This is how a renter can formally respond or contest the eviction in writing—very important if you have defenses (like rent was paid, or improper notice). Download the Official Answer to Eviction
• Writ of Possession (Form C-59): If the landlord wins and gets a judgment for possession, the court may issue this form, allowing the sheriff to remove the tenant. See the Writ of Possession Form

Step 4: Summons and Court Hearing

The court will send ("serve") you a summons and a copy of the complaint. The summons will state the hearing date—generally within 7 to 14 days. You can:

• Respond to the complaint in writing (using an Answer to Eviction form)
• Show up at the hearing and explain your side (such as proof of payment, improper notice, or repair disputes)

Step 5: Court Decision and Writ of Possession

If the judge decides in favor of your landlord, they can request a "writ of possession"—a legal order for you to leave. You typically have 7 calendar days from the judgment date to move. After that, law enforcement (never the landlord personally) may remove you from the home.

This process may move quickly—Alabama law is less forgiving with eviction timeframes than some other states. Seek help as soon as you get a notice or complaint.

What If I Need More Time or Want to Contest an Eviction?

You might have legal defenses, such as:

• The landlord didn’t follow proper notice rules
• The property is unsafe or not maintained as required by law
• Rent was paid or lease violation is incorrect

If you wish to fight the eviction or ask for more time, file an Answer to Eviction or seek free legal assistance as soon as possible.

FAQ: Alabama Eviction Timeline for Renters

1. How much notice does a landlord have to give before filing for eviction in Alabama?
   Landlords must generally provide a 7-day notice for unpaid rent or most lease violations before starting the eviction process in court.
2. Can I stop the eviction by paying the rent after I get a notice?
   Yes—if you pay the full amount due within the 7-day notice period (and no court case has been filed yet), the landlord must stop the eviction for nonpayment.
3. What official forms do I need as a renter to respond to an eviction in Alabama?
   You can use the "Answer to Eviction" (Form C-70) to tell the court your side or raise any defenses. File quickly, and attend your court date.
4. What agency or court handles residential eviction cases in Alabama?
   Evictions are handled by your local District Court, part of the Alabama Unified Judicial System.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Most evictions start with a 7-day written notice. Act promptly if you receive one.
• The court—not your landlord—decides if and when you must move.
• Use official forms, read all documents closely, and go to your court hearing.

If you ever receive eviction paperwork, know your rights and get help early in the process.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Alabama Unified Judicial System District Court Locator – Find your local eviction court.
• Legal Help Alabama – Free or low-cost legal aid for Alabama renters.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Alabama Resources
• Read the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• For forms and guidance, see the Alabama Court System Civil Forms page.

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1. Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Ala. Code § 35-9A)
2. Alabama Unified Judicial System – For court forms and location information

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