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What to expect at an eviction hearing

For most people, going to court to resolve a legal dispute is a last resort. Landlords are the same way. Most experienced landlords agree that it’s sometimes necessary to go through the entire eviction process, it’s usually better to settle the matter out of court.

Still, as a landlord you need to know your rights and responsibilities in Pennsylvania, as well as the eviction process. In today’s post, we will discuss the central step in eviction law: the eviction hearing.

How the eviction hearing works

The hearing is similar to a trial, complete with a judge and courtroom. The judge’s job is to determine whether the tenant should be evicted. For the hearing to take place, the landlord must file the necessary paperwork and provide the tenant with sufficient written notice. The tenant must file a written answer, or the court will rule for the landlord without a hearing.

At the hearing itself, each party gets the chance to present documents, witness testimony and other evidence to support their case. Your attorney can prepare your case for you and represent you during these proceedings.

Possible remedies for landlords

Among the remedies the tenant can seek are compensation for unpaid rent, attorney fees and costs, and a writ for possession of the premises in dispute. The writ is a court order to the tenant to leave the premises so that the landlord can retake possession.

Your best chance of prevailing in an eviction is to retain an experienced real estate attorney. Trying to handle one on your own can result in costly delays, or even cost you your right to retake your property.

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