What Nevada Renters Should Expect in Eviction Court

Facing eviction can be stressful and confusing for Nevada renters. Understanding your rights and the eviction court process helps you prepare and protect yourself. This guide explains step-by-step what to expect if your case goes to eviction court, describes key legal forms, and links to official Nevada resources and laws.

Understanding the Nevada Eviction Court Process

Most evictions in Nevada are handled by the Nevada Justice Courts, which review landlord-tenant cases. If your landlord wants to evict you, they must follow procedures set by the Nevada Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. This protects both tenant and landlord rights.

Generally, the eviction process starts with your landlord serving an official notice. If you do not move out or respond, your landlord can request a court hearing.

Key Steps in the Nevada Eviction Timeline

• Notice: Landlord serves a written eviction notice with the reason (such as nonpayment or lease violation).
• Tenant’s Response: You have a limited time—even just 5 judicial days—to respond by filing an official Tenant Answer with the court.
• Court Hearing: If there is a dispute, the court will hold a hearing where both sides can present their case.
• Decision: The judge issues a ruling. If the landlord wins, the tenant may be ordered to move out.
• Eviction Order: The landlord can request a formal eviction order from the court (Writ of Restitution) if you do not leave after losing the case.

If you act quickly and use the right forms, the court must hear your side.

Eviction Court Forms Every Nevada Renter Should Know

Responding to eviction notices means filling out official forms. Here are the main ones you may need as a Nevada tenant:

• Answer to Summary Eviction (Nevada Justice Court Form): Use this form to respond to an eviction notice and prevent immediate lockout.
  • When/How: File within 5 business days of receiving a 5-day eviction notice (like for nonpayment).
  • Official Answer to Summary Eviction Form
• Affidavit for Order to Show Cause (Justice Court Form): If you do not agree with the eviction, you can file this requesting a hearing.
  • When/How: Submit after an eviction notice or lockout if you want a court hearing to explain your case.
  • Official Order to Show Cause Form
• Motion to Stay Eviction (Justice Court Form): This form asks the judge to pause the eviction, usually after an eviction order is issued.
  • When/How: File right away if you need more time to move or are seeking an emergency stop of the eviction order.
  • Official Motion to Stay Eviction

These forms must be filed in the Justice Court that covers your rental property’s location. You can find a list of Justice Courts here.

Your Rights and What to Expect at Your Court Hearing

Eviction court is usually quick. The judge will ask both sides to briefly share their story. As a tenant, you have the right to:

• Present evidence (such as receipts, photos, or written communication)
• Bring witnesses if needed
• Explain your side and ask questions

If English is not your first language or you need disability accommodations, notify the court ahead of time.

After the Hearing

The judge may make a decision right then or later that day. If you lose, you may qualify for extra time to move, especially in cases involving hardship or if you file a stay. Never ignore a court order—doing so can result in immediate lockout by the sheriff.

How to Respond to a Nevada Eviction Notice: Action Steps

The most important thing is to act fast. Missing court deadlines can result in automatic eviction. Here’s what to do:

• Read your eviction notice carefully and note your deadline
• Download and complete the appropriate Answer or Motion form
• File your form at the correct Justice Court, either in person or through their online system (where available)
• Keep copies of everything you submit
• Attend your hearing at the scheduled time

Timely filing is crucial for protecting your rights as a tenant.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord change the locks before court?
   No, Nevada law requires a court order before a landlord can legally remove you or change the locks.
2. How soon could I be evicted after a court decision?
   You may have only a few days after the eviction order to move out, depending on the court’s ruling and whether you file a motion to stay.
3. What if I need more time to move?
   You can file a Motion to Stay Eviction, asking the court for a short extension. It is up to the judge to approve it.
4. Do I need a lawyer to go to eviction court in Nevada?
   No, but it may help if your case is complex. Free or low-cost legal help may be available (see resources below).
5. What happens if I don’t show up to the eviction hearing?
   The judge may rule against you by default, giving the landlord permission to proceed with the eviction.

Key Takeaways for Nevada Renters

• Act quickly if you receive any eviction notice—strict deadlines apply.
• Use Nevada’s official forms to protect your rights and request a court hearing.
• Prepare your documents and be ready to explain your story in court.

Understanding the process—and knowing where to get help—can make a big difference in how your case turns out.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nevada Courts Self-Help: Tenant Resource Center – Explains court forms, deadlines, and tenants’ rights.
• Nevada Legal Services: Eviction Legal Help – Free and low-cost legal advice for renters.
• Read the Nevada Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Call Nevada 2-1-1 or visit Nevada 211 for housing and emergency support services.

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1. Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 118A – Landlord and Tenant: Dwellings
2. Nevada Justice Courts Directory
3. Nevada Tenant Forms – Official County Court Links
4. Nevada Tenant Self-Help Legal Resources

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