California Tenant Question Library
What Happens If I Don't Respond to Court Documents?
Short answer
The landlord can win by default. If you're served and don't respond by the deadline, the court can decide the case without hearing your side.
If you've been served with a Summons and Complaint for unlawful detainer and don't file a written response by the deadline, the landlord can have your default entered and then request a default judgment — and the case can be decided against you without your side being heard.
The deadline is short (generally 10 court days after personal service), which is why not responding is one of the most common ways a tenant loses. Responding preserves your opportunity to participate in the case and raise defenses.
A Few Things Worth Knowing
- Not responding by the deadline can lead to a default judgment.
- The deadline is short — generally 10 court days after personal service.
- Responding preserves your opportunity to participate and raise defenses.
The Tool for This Stage
Understand the Response Deadline
The California Tenant Rapid Defense System helps you understand the deadline and what a response involves.