Home
Evictions Home
Stage 1
3-Day Notice
Stage 2
Eviction Petition
Stage 3
Court Appearance
Stage 4
Writ Of Possession
Stage 5
Tenant Appeal Information
Stage 6
Abstract of Judgement
Stage 3: Court Appearance Guide
Disclaimer:
Reilly’s Real Estate Brokerage LLC and its employees are not licensed attorneys and do not provide legal advice or guarantee outcomes in any legal proceedings. The information we offer is intended to educate property owners about the eviction process and provide guidance based on our experience in eviction matters
Step 5: Helpful court Room Tips
Arrive Early
Be punctual and plan to arrive ahead of time. Cases scheduled before yours may delay your start, and security screenings (including metal detectors) at courthouse entrance can take several minutes. Do not bring weapons, including pocket knives, to courthouse.
Maintain Professionalism
Remain respectful at all times. Avoid shouting, raising your voice, using profanity, or speaking negatively to anyone in the courtroom.
Dress And Behave Respectfully
Wear neat, clean, business casual attire to demonstrate respect for the court. Avoid shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, worn-out jeans, or similar clothing—formal attire like a suit or tie isn’t required. Remove hats in the courtroom. Do not chew gum, eat, or drink during the hearing. Silence all cell phones and electronic devices, and refrain from talking to others while court is in session.
Leave Children At Home
Do not bring children unless they are required by the judge or an attorney, or if they will serve as a witness or provide information during the hearing.
Follow Courtroom Procedures
When your case is called, follow court staff’s instructions on where to sit or stand. Bring all your paperwork with you. Address the judge as “Your Honor” or “Judge” and stand when speaking to the judge .
Speak Clearly And Respectfully
Listen attentively and wait for your turn to speak—do not interrupt the judge or defendant. When it’s your turn, speak slowly, stay calm, and present your case. Direct all comments to the judge, not the defendant.
Stay Focused On Rent Issues
If tenants raise topics unrelated to rent (e.g., repairs or property condition) and the judge asks about these, respond: “Your Honor, I am not prepared to address any matters other than unpaid rent today. The tenant is welcome to follow proper procedures to file a separate complaint if needed.”
Understand The Outsome If You Win
If the judge rules in your favor, tenants have 5 days (excluding weekends and holidays) to file an appeal. Ideally, they will vacate the property once ruling is made.
Handling A Loss In Court
If you lose:
Listen carefully to the judge’s explanation on the ruling.
Identify and correct any mistakes made in the process, as you’ll need to start over.
Be aware that the tenant will be allowed to remain in the property.
Home
Evictions Home
Stage 1
3-Day Notice
Stage 2
Eviction Petition
Stage 3
Court Appearance
Stage 4
Writ Of Possession
Stage 5
Tenant Appeal Information
Stage 6
Abstract of Judgement