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Understanding Unlawful Detainer Actions (Evictions) in Alabama

Dive into the essentials of Alabama's landlord-tenant laws to know your rights and responsibilities clearly.

5/8/20241 min read

a close up of a piece of paper with a notice of eviction on it
a close up of a piece of paper with a notice of eviction on it

If you're a landlord in Alabama facing an eviction, the #1 question on your mind is probably: how long will this take?

The short answer: Its takes an average of 60-90 days to e-depending on whether the tenant contests and how quickly the court moves. Here's the full breakdown.

Alabama Residential Eviction Timeline at a Glance

  • Notice period: 7-30 days (depending on the reason)

  • Filing to service: 1 to 14 days, a private process server if usually faster than the sheriff's department

  • Court hearing: 30 to 60 days after filing

  • Writ of possession (if tenant loses): 7 tdays after judgment

  • Total: 60 - 90 days on average

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Notice to Tenant

Before you can file, you must give the tenant written notice:

  • Non-payment of rent: 7-day notice to pay or quit

  • Lease violation: 7 notice to cure or quit

  • Holdover: 30-day notice to vacate

  • Illegal activity: 7-day notice to quit

2. Filing the Eviction

Once the notice period passes, file an eviction complaint (unlawful detainer) at the county circuit clerk's office. Filing costs vary by county — typically $100 to $300 plus service fees.

3. Service and Hearing Notice

The court issues a summons, and the tenant must be served. A hearing is usually scheduled 30 to 60 days after filing.

4. Court Hearing

At the hearing, both sides present their case. If the tenant doesn't show up, you win by default.

5. Writ of Possession

If you win, after the applicable waiting period, you can get a writ of possession. If the Tenant doesn't leave, the sheriff enforces the writ and forcibly removes the tenant and their belongings from the residence.

How to Speed It Up

  1. Document everything — Keep copies of the lease, rent ledger, notices

  2. Serve notices properly — Improper service = dismissal

  3. Respond quickly — Don't miss court deadlines

  4. Hire a service — Professional filing saves time

Need help with your eviction in Alabama?
Start here: www.ezevictional.com

This is general information for landlords in Alabama and not legal advice.

Alabama Eviction Timeline: How Long Does It Take?