If you need to check the status of an eviction case or view case details, most eviction cases are handled in Municipal Court. Here’s a simple guide to help you find your eviction court case online:
- Visit the Website: Start by navigating to fjdclaims.phila.gov.
- Access Public Records: Click on “Login As Public User.”
- Verification: You’ll need to enter the text displayed in an image to verify your access, then click “I Accept” to proceed.
- Search for Cases: Once in, click on “Search.” To refine your search to eviction cases, for “Type,” select “Defendant” and for “Case Type,” choose “LT Landlord/Tenant.”
- Enter Your Name: Type your name in the search input box. This should be the name listed on the lease. Then click “Go!”
- Review Case Listings: Look for the case number that includes both your landlord’s name and your name. If your case doesn’t immediately come up, try alternate spellings of your name or any aliases you might have used.
- Explore Case Details: After selecting a case, you’ll need to re-enter a verification text and click “Continue” to view the details.
- Understand Docket Entries: The court docket lists all entries related to the case. Key entries to look for include:
- Landlord Tenant Complaint: This is usually the first entry.
- Exhibits: Look for exhibits like the rental license or lease agreement.
- Continuances or Judgments: These are typically found in the first ten entries and are crucial for understanding any changes or decisions in the case.
By following these steps, you can obtain detailed information about your eviction case directly from the court records. This information can be crucial for preparing your response or for any discussions with your landlord tenant lawyer.
Dig Deeper
For landlords in Pennsylvania considering eviction, understanding both the specific steps involved in the eviction process and the legal grounds for eviction is crucial. Here’s a streamlined guide to help you navigate the process, along with how Latoison Law can assist you as tenant eviction lawyers:
Understanding the Grounds for Eviction
Pennsylvania landlords can evict tenants for several reasons, including nonpayment of rent, lease violations (like unauthorized pets or noise complaints), illegal activities on the premises, or the non-renewal of the lease after the rental period ends. However, landlords cannot evict tenants for discriminatory reasons, as retaliation against a tenant’s legal rights, or if the property fails to meet health and safety standards.
Eviction Process Overview
- Notice to Quit: This is the first step where you provide the tenant with a formal eviction notice. Depending on the duration of their tenancy and the reason for eviction, this could be a 15-Day Notice for tenants of one year or less, or a 30-Day Notice for those who have lived there longer.
- Filing a Complaint: If the tenant does not resolve the issue or vacate after the notice period, you can file a Landlord-Tenant Complaint in the appropriate district court.
- Court Proceedings: After filing, a hearing will be scheduled. If the tenant fails to attend, the decision may default in your favor. If you win the case, you can request a Writ of Possession to legally remove the tenant.
- Eviction: A sheriff or constable carries out the eviction based on the court’s order.
How Latoison Law Can Help
As experienced tenant eviction lawyers, Latoison Law can guide you through each step of this process. We ensure that all legal requirements are met and help document all interactions and violations thoroughly. Our legal team provides representation in court, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome, and handles all the complexities of the eviction process on your behalf.
Engaging with a specialized eviction attorney at Latoison Law can provide you with the necessary legal support and peace of mind during stressful eviction proceedings. Whether you’re drafting notices or need representation in court, we’re here to help ensure that your actions are legally sound and effective.
For more detailed steps and legal forms, landlords can refer to resources like the Pennsylvania eviction process guide on Steadily.
These resources provide a comprehensive look at how to handle eviction legally and efficiently, ensuring you stay informed about your rights and responsibilities as a landlord in Pennsylvania.
