Eviction Defense

The time to respond to an eviction case is very short and you may only have 5 court days (excluding weekends and court holidays) from the date you were served with the lawsuit papers to file your answer in court.  Failure to timely file an answer may result in the automatic loss of your eviction cases.

We have many ways to help if you are being evicted. We can tell you what your rights are and what you can do to protect yourself and your family.

Eviction Defense Walk-in Clinic

To get help responding to your eviction (unlawful detainer) you can come to Legal Aid Society’s walk-in clinic located at the Hall of Justice courthouse in Downtown San Diego. No appointment is needed and services are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

We can help you prepare an answer to an Unlawful Detainer (Eviction) lawsuit, or we can help you ask the court for more time to move if you have a notice to vacate from the Sheriff.     

Location:  
Hall of Justice
330 W. Broadway, 2nd floor, Room 251
San Diego, CA  92101

Hours of Operation:  Monday through Friday
8:30 AM to 3:30 PM

LASSD Clinics are closed on court holidays.  Check court holidays: Hours & Holidays | Superior Court of California - County of San Diego

Self Help Resources

  • A video on how to act at your own trial can be seen here.
  • And a State Court video on how to resolve your Unlawful Detainer case in court can be seen here.
  • Request to Waive Court Fees - click here
  • Information on Eviction Moratoriums - click here

Request a Presentation

Our staff give presentations on a variety of issues to community groups, service providers, and others in low-income communities.

Presentation Request Form

Volunteer to Help

We can always use volunteer assistance. Please contact our pro bono team for opportunities!

Volunteer