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Navigating through the process of eviction can be a daunting task, both for landlords and tenants. Central to this process is the Eviction Complaint form, a legal document that becomes the foundation for the eviction proceedings in court. Originating in the Justice Court of Precinct 1, Randall County, Texas, this form lays out the groundwork for the eviction case, starting with identifying the involved parties: the plaintiff, who could be the landlord or their agent, and the defendant, typically the tenant. This document is where the plaintiff officially files a complaint to reclaim possession of their property, explaining the reasons why the eviction is sought, such as nonpayment of rent, violation of the lease terms, property damage or another form of breach. It specifies the type of property in dispute, the rental agreement's details, and the required notices given to the tenant, aligning with Texas Property Code provisions. Furthermore, the complaint outlines the financial claims by the landlord for unpaid and accruing rent, court costs, potentially attorney fees, and interest per the lease or state law. Critical to the form is the affidavit of military status, protecting the rights of service members under the U.S. Servicemember Civil Relief Act of 2003. By furnishing this document, the plaintiff requests the court's judgment for possession of the property, a writ of possession for the removal of the defendant, and the recovery of any financial damages incurred.

Preview - Eviction Complaint Form

EVICTION COMPLAINT

Cause # ________________

Justice of the Peace, Pct 1

Randall County, Texas

Plaintiff: _____________________________________________________________________

(Or agent)

______________________________________________________________________

Vs.

Defendant: ____________________________________________________________________

(Signed lease)

______________________________________________________________________

TO THE HONORABLE JUDGE OF SAID COURT:

Plaintiff files this sworn complaint against the above named Defendant(s) to evict them from Plaintiff’s premises (including storerooms and parking areas) which is located within Pct. 1 or Randall County, Texas, such premises being:

Street

City

Zip

Service if requested on Defendant(s) by personal service at home or work or by alternate service under Rule 742 if necessary.

Plaintiff and Defendant entered into a rental/lease agreement for occupancy of the above stated property.

Plaintiff delivered to Defendant(s) a written notice to vacate in accordance with the applicable notice requirements of Section 24.005 or Section 24.006, Texas Property Code; or, if the land or lot was rented for occupancy by a manufactured home not owned by plaintiff, notice to vacate was delivered under Section 94.2-3, Texas Property Code.

If the rental agreement is for the rental of land on which a manufactured home has been placed by the defendant(s), plaintiff has complied with all notice and time requirements in Section 94.203, Texas Property Code. The name(s) and address(es) of all lien holders on the manufactured home are:

______________________________________________________________________________

Plaintiff requests judgment for possession of said property, including removal of Defendant(s) and Defendants’ possessions; unpaid rent and accrued rent to date of judgment; court costs; attorney fees (if applicable); plus interest at the rate stated in rental contract or if not stated at highest rate provided by law.

The ground or grounds for eviction are as follows: (check and fill in information as applicable)

Eviction is for nonpayment of rent. Defendant(s) have failed to pay the rent for the period beginning the ______ day of _______________, 20___. The total unpaid rent to time of filing this eviction complaint is $__________. The rent is $________ per month week or other

rental period (describe period) __________________________. The most recent rental due date

prior to filing this eviction complaint was the ________ day of ______________, 20_____.

Eviction is for holding over after rental Agreement. The date of such expiration or termination was _____________________, 20 _____.

Eviction is for holding over after foreclosure.

Eviction is for holding over after termination of executory purchase contract (contract for deed)

Eviction is for Conduct in violation of rental agreement.

Eviction is for property damage.

Eviction is for trespass.

Eviction on other grounds: ____________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Plaintiff requests judgment for plaintiff and against defendant(s) for possession of the premises and issuance of a writ of possession, and all court costs. Additionally, plaintiff requests judgment for plaintiff and against defendant(s) for the following: (check only if applicable)

Rent. If eviction is based on nonpayment of rent, plaintiff requests judgment for unpaid rent in the amount of $_________, through the time of filing, and plaintiff also seeks judgment for rent accruing from the date of filing and become due thereafter as allowed by the court.

Attorneys’ fees. If plaintiff engages an attorney, plaintiff requests judgment for attorneys’ fees because (check only one) defendant(s) signed a written rental agreement containing a provision entitling plaintiff to attorneys’ fees, or plaintiff has given 10-day notice to vacate as provided in Section 24.006, Texas Property Code.

Post-judgment interest. If plaintiff is granted judgment for rent or attorneys’ fees, plaintiff requests judgment for post-judgment interest as allowed by statute or the rental agreement.

PLAINTIFF: ____________________________________

By: ________________________________

Address: _________________________________________________________________

Telephone: _______________________

STATE OF TEXAS

COUNTY OF RANDALL

Sworn to and subscribed before me by the above signatory on the ___

day________________, 20____.

____________________________________

Notary Public for the State of Texas or Justice Court Clerk

Cause No. _____________

In the Justice Court, Precinct 1,

County of Randall, Texas

STATE OF TEXAS

COUNTY OF RANDALL

AFFIDAVIT OF MILITARY STATUS OF DEFENDANT(S)

Before me the undersigned notary or clerk of the justice court, on this day personally appeared the undersigned affiant whose identity is known to me. After I administered an oath to such affiant, he or she upon oath and under penalty of perjury (fine and/or up to one year in jail), stated the following:

My name is _______________________________________ I am [check one] the plaintiff or

an authorized agent of the plaintiff n the case described at the top right of this page. I am over 18 years of age. I am capable of making this affidavit. The facts stated in the affidavit are within my personal knowledge and are true and correct.

[check or fill in as applicable]

1. No defendant in this case is on active duty in the U.S. military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard). The facts on which I base my conclusion are as follows:

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

2.Defendant is on active duty in the U.S. military.

3.Defendant has been deployed by the U.S. military to a foreign county.

4.Plaintiff and the undersigned (if the undersigned is acting agent of plaintiff) are not able to determine whether any defendant is with the U.S. military – except for any defendant named in paragraph 2 above.

5. Plaintiff and the undersigned (if the undersigned is acting as an agent of plaintiff) are not able to determine whether any defendant who is in the U.S. military has been deployed to a foreign country – except for any defendant named in paragraph 2 above.

6. Defendant has signed, while on active duty, a separate written waiver or a written lease containing a waiver of his or her rights under the U.S. Servicemember Civil Relief Act of 2003.

______________________________

Signature of affiant

SWORN TO and SUBSCRIBED before me by the above signatory on ____________________,

20____.

______________________________________

Clerk of the Justice Court

Form Data

Fact Name Description
Applicable Court The Eviction Complaint is filed in the Justice Court, Precinct 1, Randall County, Texas.
Plaintiff and Defendant Information The form requires detailed information about the plaintiff (or their agent) and the defendant, including names and addresses.
Notice Requirements The plaintiff must have delivered a written notice to vacate to the defendant as dictated by either Section 24.005 or Section 24.006, Texas Property Code, or under Section 94.2-3 for manufactured homes not owned by the plaintiff.
Grounds for Eviction The form lists multiple grounds for eviction, including nonpayment of rent, holding over after a lease term, property damage, and violation of rental agreements.
Rental Agreements and Notices If the eviction is due to nonpayment of rent, the form requires specifics about the rental amount, period, and the most recent due date before filing the complaint.
Affidavit of Military Status An affidavit confirming whether the defendant is on active military duty is required, to comply with the U.S. Servicemember Civil Relief Act of 2003, ensuring protections for military personnel.

Instructions on Utilizing Eviction Complaint

Filling out an Eviction Complaint form is a legal process that begins the formal procedure to evict a tenant from a property. This document is necessary for a landlord to legally remove tenants who have violated their lease agreements in various ways, such as failing to pay rent or causing damage to the property. Understanding how to properly fill out this form is crucial to ensure that the eviction process proceeds without unnecessary delays. Here are the steps needed to complete the Eviction Complaint form effectively.

  1. Begin by entering the Cause Number at the top of the form, if known.
  2. Specify the Justice of the Peace and the precinct (Pct. 1) for Randall County, Texas.
  3. Under "Plaintiff," write the name of the property owner or the agent acting on behalf of the owner. If an agent is filling out the form, ensure to include this information as well.
  4. In the "Vs. Defendant" section, provide the full name of the tenant(s) you are seeking to evict. If there is a signed lease, ensure this document is attached or its details are accurately referenced.
  5. Proceed to fill out the address of the premises from which eviction is sought, ensuring to include the street, city, and zip code. This section is critical for identifying the location of the property accurately.
  6. Enter the details of the rental/lease agreement, including the commencement date, terms, and conditions agreed upon by both parties. If applicable, specify the form of service requested on the defendant(s).
  7. Document the delivery of a written notice to vacate to the defendant(s), adhering to the applicable notice requirements outlined in either Section 24.005 or Section 24.006 of the Texas Property Code. If the eviction involves a manufactured home not owned by the plaintiff, reference the appropriate notice delivery under Section 94.2-3 or Section 94.203, as appropriate.
  8. Include the name(s) and address(es) of all lien holders on the manufactured home involved, if any.
  9. In the section titled "The ground or grounds for eviction," check the appropriate box(es) that describe the reason for eviction. Fill in any required details, such as periods of unpaid rent, the total amount owed, and the last due date before filing this complaint.
  10. For plaintiffs requesting judgment for unpaid rent, court costs, attorney fees, and interest, Complete the relevant sections. Be sure to include the specific amounts and legal grounds supporting these requests. If claiming attorney fees, specify under which condition they're claimed.
  11. Finally, sign and date the form at the bottom. Provide the plaintiff's full contact details, including address and telephone number. If an affidavit of military status of the defendant(s) is necessary, ensure this is duly completed and attached.
  12. Swear to and subscribe the form before a notary public or Justice Court Clerk, as indicated, making sure the notary completes their section of the form.

After filling out the Eviction Complaint form, it will be filed with the court. The court will then review the complaint and, if everything is in order, will schedule a hearing. It is important to attend this hearing and present evidence supporting the eviction claim. The judge will make a decision based on the information provided. If the eviction is granted, a writ of possession will be issued, and the eviction process will proceed.

Obtain Answers on Eviction Complaint

  1. What is the purpose of the Eviction Complaint form?

    The Eviction Complaint form is a legal document used by a landlord or their agent to initiate court proceedings against a tenant for the purpose of regaining possession of their property. This action is typically taken due to violations of the rental agreement, such as nonpayment of rent, overstaying the lease term, property damage, or other breaches of the lease terms. Through this form, the landlord formally requests the court's intervention to remove the tenant and recover any unpaid rent, accrued rent up to the judgment date, court costs, attorney’s fees (if applicable), and interest.

  2. When should a landlord file an Eviction Complaint?

    A landlord should file an Eviction Complaint after they have provided the tenant with a written notice to vacate, as required by the Texas Property Code Section 24.005 or 24.006, or in specific cases related to manufactured homes, under Section 94.2-3 or 94.203. This notice serves as a final warning to the tenant, and if the tenant fails to vacate the property within the stated time, the landlord is then entitled to file an eviction complaint in court. It's essential to ensure that all notice and time requirements are met to avoid delays or dismissal of the case.

  3. How does a landlord prove grounds for eviction?

    To prove the grounds for eviction, a landlord must clearly indicate the reason(s) for eviction on the complaint form and provide evidence supporting the claim. This evidence could include a record of unpaid rent, a copy of the notice to vacate that was provided to the tenant, photographs or records of property damage, or any other documentation that establishes the tenant's violation of the rental agreement. The complaint must specify the type of violation, such as nonpayment of rent, holding over after the end of the lease term, property damage, or other breached conditions of the lease agreement.

  4. What happens after an Eviction Complaint is filed?

    After filing an Eviction Complaint, the court will schedule a hearing where both the landlord (plaintiff) and the tenant (defendant) can present their cases. It is crucial for the landlord to attend this hearing and bring all relevant evidence and documentation to support their claim for eviction. If the court rules in favor of the landlord, it will issue a judgment for possession of the property, allowing the landlord to regain control and may also award damages for unpaid rent and legal costs. In some cases, the court may issue a writ of possession, authorizing the removal of the tenant and their belongings from the property.

Common mistakes

Filling out an Eviction Complaint form requires attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the legal requirements. Unfortunately, many people make mistakes during this process, which can lead to delays or complications in their case. Here are eight common errors to watch out for:

  1. Not verifying the tenant's military status accurately.

    It’s crucial to check whether the tenant is on active military duty to ensure compliance with specific protections under the Servicemember Civil Relief Act.

  2. Failing to provide detailed information about unpaid rent.

    Simply stating that the tenant has not paid rent is not sufficient. One must include specific amounts, dates, and the period for which rent is owed.

  3. Omitting details about the lease agreement.

    It's necessary to specify the type of lease and include relevant details such as lease start and end dates, especially in cases like holding over after agreement expiration.

  4. Incorrectly identifying the property location.

    Ensuring the property address, including street, city, and zip code, is accurately filled out is critical for the legal process.

  5. Not properly indicating the method of notice given to the tenant.

    One must specify how the notice to vacate was delivered, as different methods are required under the law, depending on the circumstances.

  6. Skipping the inclusion of lien holders on a manufactured home.

    If the eviction involves a manufactured home not owned by the plaintiff, the names and addresses of all lien holders must be listed.

  7. Leaving attorney fees unchecked when applicable.

    If seeking attorney fees, it's important to indicate the basis under which they are claimed, ensuring it aligns with the signed rental agreement or statutory requirements.

  8. Not providing a clear ground for eviction.

    It's not enough to want a tenant evicted; one must specify the reason, whether it is for nonpayment of rent, property damage, violation of the rental agreement, or another valid cause.

Avoiding these mistakes can help streamline the eviction process, making it smoother for everyone involved. Remember, the details matter, and accurately filling out the Eviction Complaint form is the first step toward a successful eviction proceeding.

Documents used along the form

When landlords need to initiate an eviction, the process often involves more than submitting an Eviction Complaint form alone. Various other documents are typically required to support the eviction case, each playing a crucial role in the legal process. Understanding these additional documents helps both landlords and tenants navigate the complexities of eviction proceedings more effectively.

  • Notice to Vacate: Before an eviction case can be filed, landlords must first provide the tenant with a Notice to Vacate. This document formally requests that the tenant leave the premises by a certain date due to a breach of the lease agreement, usually non-payment of rent or other violation. It's a critical first step, providing tenants with a chance to resolve the issue before formal legal proceedings begin.
  • Rent Ledger: A Rent Ledger is essentially a detailed record of the rent payments made by the tenant, including dates and amounts. It serves as proof of any missed or late payments, substantiating the landlord's claim in cases where eviction is sought for non-payment of rent.
  • Lease or Rental Agreement: The original Lease or Rental Agreement between the landlord and the tenant is fundamental to any eviction case. It outlines the obligations and rights of each party and serves as the basis for evaluation when breaches are alleged. This document demonstrates the terms that the tenant agreed to follow and that the landlord alleges were violated, leading to the eviction action.
  • Affidavit of Military Status: An Affidavit of Military Status is required to ensure that the eviction process respects the rights of servicemembers under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). This document verifies whether the tenant is currently serving in the military, which could afford them certain legal protections, including potential delays in eviction proceedings.

These documents play a pivotal role in the eviction process, outlining the responsibilities of the parties involved, presenting evidence of lease violations, and ensuring compliance with federal laws protecting servicemembers. Understanding the purpose of each document not only helps in preparing a comprehensive eviction case but also in navigating the legal steps required to resolve disputes between landlords and tenants fairly and efficiently.

Similar forms

  • Summons: Similar to an Eviction Complaint, a Summons is a legal document issued by a court that notifies the defendant of the legal action against them and mandates their appearance in court. In both instances, the documents are crucial first steps in a legal process, formally informing the respondent that legal action has been initiated and specifying what is being sought by the plaintiff.

  • Unlawful Detainer Complaint: This document closely resembles an Eviction Complaint as both are used by landlords to begin the process of legally removing tenants from a property. Specifically, an Unlawful Detainer Complaint is filed when tenants remain on the property after their lease has expired or been terminated, very similar to the eviction process for holding over after a rental agreement's expiration or termination, as outlined in an Eviction Complaint.

  • Small Claims Complaint: This document shares similarities with an Eviction Complaint in that it is often used for disputes involving unpaid rent or financial damages. While a Small Claims Complaint covers a wider range of disputes, the Eviction Complaint specifically deals with issues surrounding occupancy, unpaid rent, and the eviction process, both require the plaintiff to clearly state their case, the defendant(s), and the specific restitution or action they are seeking.

  • Notice to Quit: A Notice to Quit is a precursor to the Eviction Complaint, often legally required before filing an Eviction Complaint. It serves to inform tenants of the landlord's intention to terminate the lease and evict if certain conditions are not met, similar to how an Eviction Complaint formally requests the legal removal of tenants for similar reasons, including non-payment of rent or violation of lease terms.

  • Writ of Possession: After a court has ordered in favor of the plaintiff in an Eviction Complaint, a Writ of Possession may be issued to enforce the eviction. This document commands the sheriff to remove the tenant and their possessions from the property. It is a direct follow-up to an Eviction Complaint, carrying out the court's decision for possession, very much a subsequent step in the eviction process once judgment has been rendered.

Dos and Don'ts

When preparing an Eviction Complaint form, it is crucial to proceed with accuracy and mindfulness to ensure legal compliance and bolster the likelihood of a favorable outcome. Below, you’ll find a concise guide outlining the practices to adopt and the pitfalls to avoid in this process.

Do:

  1. Ensure that all information about the plaintiff, defendant, and the premises in question is accurate and fully provided. Misspelled names, incorrect addresses, or incomplete descriptions can lead to delays or dismissal of the case.

  2. Comply with all legal requirements for notices to vacate. This includes delivering these notices within the time frames stipulated by the Texas Property Code, ensuring that the process respects tenants' rights and legal procedures.

  3. Clearly check and fill in the specific grounds for eviction as applicable to your situation. Whether it's for nonpayment of rent, violation of lease terms, or another valid reason, being specific and factual supports your claim.

  4. Attach all relevant documentation, such as the lease agreement, notices to vacate, records of unpaid rent, or correspondence between the landlord and tenant. These documents serve as evidence to support the grounds for eviction listed in the complaint.

Don't:

  1. Leave any section of the form blank unless it truly does not apply to your case. Incomplete forms may be viewed as not meeting the filing requirements, potentially leading to rejection or the need for resubmission.

  2. Forget to include the affidavit of military status for the defendant(s). This is crucial, as it affects the legal rights and procedures if a defendant is in the military. Failing to verify and disclose this information accurately can have legal repercussions.

  3. Include any claims or requests for relief that are not directly related to the eviction process, such as damages for breach of contract or personal injury claims. Focus only on what's relevant for regaining possession of the property and related damages like unpaid rent.

  4. Attempt to file the eviction complaint without checking your local court's specific filing requirements and procedures. Courts can have different rules for submission, and understanding these rules ensures your filing is handled efficiently.

Approaching the eviction process with diligence and attention to detail can greatly influence the outcome of your case. By following these do's and don'ts when filling out an Eviction Complaint form, you position yourself for a resolution that is both legally sound and expedient.

Misconceptions

Many people have misconceptions about the Eviction Complaint form used in legal proceedings. Understanding these misconceptions can help both landlords and tenants navigate the complexities of eviction with more clarity.

  • Only for Nonpayment of Rent: A common misconception is that eviction complaints are only filed for nonpayment of rent. Although nonpayment is a frequent reason, the form also includes provisions for eviction due to holding over after a lease agreement, violations of the rental agreement, property damage, and other grounds.

  • Attorneys Are Always Required: Some believe that an attorney must always file an eviction complaint. In many jurisdictions, landlords, especially those running small operations, can file an eviction themselves. However, legal representation can be beneficial, especially in complicated cases.

  • Immediate Eviction: Another misunderstanding is that filing an eviction complaint leads to immediate eviction. The legal process affords tenants a chance to respond, and a court hearing is usually required. The timeline can vary significantly based on local laws and court schedules.

  • No Notice Needed: It's incorrectly assumed at times that filing an eviction complaint means notice to vacate is not required. In reality, landlords must typically provide written notice to tenants, addressing the duration as stipulated by state or local laws, before filing an eviction complaint.

  • Service of Complaint Is Optional: The idea that the service of the eviction complaint on the tenant is optional or informal is incorrect. Proper legal service of the complaint is essential for the eviction process to proceed, ensuring tenants are formally informed and given an opportunity to respond.

  • Eviction Ends the Rental Agreement: Some assume that once an eviction complaint is filed, the rental agreement is automatically terminated. However, the legal relationship and obligations, such as rent payment, continue until the court issues a final order.

  • Rent Cannot Be Collected After Eviction Filing: There's a misconception that landlords cannot collect or claim unpaid rent once they file for eviction. The eviction complaint form clearly provides a section for claiming unpaid rent and even rent accruing until the judgment.

  • Property Damage Is Not a Valid Reason: Some might think eviction can't be based on property damage. However, damage to the property by the tenant is indeed a valid ground for eviction, as explicitly stated in the form.

  • Personal Service is the Only Service Method: Many are under the belief that the eviction complaint must be served in person. While personal service at the tenant's home or work is common, alternate service methods under certain rules are also allowable if necessary.

  • Military Status Is Irrelevant: A common misconception is that a tenant's military status does not affect the eviction process. In fact, the eviction complaint form includes a section for an affidavit of military status to comply with the protections afforded under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act.

Addressing these misconceptions can facilitate a more informed and lawful eviction process, ensuring that both landlords and tenants understand their rights and obligations under the law.

Key takeaways

Filing the Eviction Complaint form requires the plaintiff to accurately detail both parties' information, the premises involved, and the specific grounds for eviction. This form is used within the jurisdiction of the Justice Court, Precinct 1, Randall County, Texas.

  • The form initiates an eviction process against a defendant by a plaintiff, who may also be represented by an agent.
  • It is crucial for the plaintiff to provide a comprehensive description of the premises from which eviction is sought, including specifics such as street address, city, and zip code.
  • Plaintiffs must have delivered a written notice to vacate to the defendant, conforming with Section 24.005 or 24.006 of the Texas Property Code, or under Section 94.2-3 if the case involves a manufactured home.
  • For rented land with a manufactured home owned by the defendant, plaintiffs must comply with notice and time requirements as detailed in Section 94.203 of the Texas Property Code.
  • The complaint must state the total due rent up to the filing date, including detailed rental periods and the amount due for each period if eviction is sought due to non-payment of rent.
  • Plaintiffs must check and complete sections relevant to their eviction case's grounds, such as non-payment of rent, holding over post-lease or agreement, property damage, or violation of rental agreement conditions.
  • The form allows plaintiffs to request judgments for possession of the property, removal of the defendant and their possessions, unpaid and accrued rent, court costs, attorney fees (if applicable), and interest.
  • If the eviction is based on non-payment of rent, the plaintiff can seek a judgment for the unpaid rent amount from the filing date and any rent accruing thereafter, as permitted by the court.
  • Plaintiffs who hire attorneys can request judgment for attorneys’ fees provided that a clause in the rental agreement entitles them to such fees or they gave a 10-day notice to vacate as per Section 24.006 of the Texas Property Code.

An affidavit of the defendant's military status is also required as part of the filing, ensuring protection under the U.S. Servicemember Civil Relief Act of 2003. This includes declarations regarding the defendant's active military status or any deployments.

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