California Tenant Question Library
What Happens After I File an Answer to a California Unlawful Detainer?
Short answer
The case moves quickly toward trial. After you file your written response, the court sets a trial date — usually fast — and the case can also be resolved by settlement or motion before then.
An unlawful detainer is a "summary" (fast-tracked) proceeding, so once you've filed your Answer to the complaint, things move quickly.
Either side can request a trial, and the court typically sets a trial date on a short timeline. Before trial, the case can also be resolved other ways — the parties may reach a settlement, or one side may bring a motion. At trial, both sides present their case and a judge, or a jury if one is requested, decides. Filing your Answer is what keeps you in the process and preserves your right to be heard.
A Few Things Worth Knowing
- Unlawful detainer is fast-tracked, so a trial date is usually set quickly.
- Before trial, a case can also be resolved by settlement or by motion.
- At trial, both sides present their case and the court decides.
The Tool for This Stage
Understand What Comes Next
The California Tenant Rapid Defense System helps you understand the stages of an unlawful detainer case and what filing a response involves.