The landlord should keep copies of all the documents they file. They will need one set for the tenant, and one set for their records.
Here are the steps in the process:
The documents required to start an eviction case can be filed in person, by mail, and by email. See the Filing Procedures web page for more information about filing.
There is a filing fee to start the case. The Application to Waive Filing Fees and Service Costs web page has information about the process to ask to waive the filing fee, and the form to make the request.
The court will assign a case number (sometimes called a docket number), and will give the landlord a signed summons.
Sheriff serves the tenant
The landlord is responsible for arranging to have all of the documents filed with the court served on the tenant by a sheriff.
The landlord must provide these documents to be served on the tenant:
Complaint, including any attachments filed such as:
A copy of the lease, if it is written.
A copy of the written termination notice given to the tenant.
Summons signed by the court clerk or landlord’s attorney.
Declaration of Compliance with CARES Act (form 100-00031).
Blank Answer form.
Blank Notice of Appearance for Self-Represented Litigant (form 100-00265).
There is a fee to have a sheriff or constable serve. The landlord can ask to have the service fee waived as part of a request to waive the filing fees. See the Application to Waive Filing Fees and Service Costs web page for information.
Once the sheriff serves the documents, they will send the landlord a document called Return of Service. It will list the documents the sheriff served and the amount they charged. The landlord must file the Return of Service with the court to prove the tenant was served.
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