How Much Does an Eviction Cost in California? - 951 Evictions - Evictions Riverside County - Landlord Tenant Evictions Los Angeles,

A California eviction typically costs between $500 and $4,000 total, depending on whether you hire an attorney, use an eviction service, or represent yourself. Court filing fees alone run $240–$435. Attorney fees can reach $2,000–$5,000 or more for contested cases. An eviction document preparation service is the most affordable option for most landlords, often completing the process for $500–$1,200 all-in.

Court Filing Fees

As of 2024, filing an unlawful detainer in a California superior court costs approximately $240 for claims under $10,000 (most residential evictions) and up to $435 for larger claims. These fees are set by the state and are the same whether you hire an attorney, use an eviction service, or file yourself. If you win, these costs can often be included in the judgment against the tenant.

Process Serving Fees

The summons and complaint must be served by a licensed process server or sheriff. Professional process server fees in Riverside and San Bernardino counties typically run $60–$150 per attempt, depending on the number of service attempts required. Sheriff service is available but slower — it can take two to three weeks compared to a same-day or next-day attempt by a private server.

Attorney Fees vs. Eviction Services

A full-service eviction attorney in California typically charges $1,500–$3,500 for an uncontested case and $3,000–$10,000 or more if the tenant contests. For straightforward non-payment evictions, most landlords do not need a licensed attorney. A registered legal document assistant (LDA) or eviction service can prepare all court documents, arrange service, and handle the filing for a fraction of the cost — typically $400–$900 in service fees plus the court filing costs.

What If the Tenant Contests the Eviction?

Contested evictions require a court hearing, which adds time and cost. If you are using an eviction service rather than an attorney, you will need to represent yourself at the hearing. Many landlords are surprised to find that unlawful detainer hearings in California are relatively straightforward when the paperwork is in order — judges move quickly through these cases. However, if the tenant has legal representation, having an attorney of your own becomes more important.

Can You Recover Eviction Costs From the Tenant?

California allows landlords to include court costs and, in some cases, attorney’s fees in the judgment. If your lease has an attorney’s fee clause, the prevailing party can recover those fees. Even if you win a judgment for unpaid rent and costs, collecting from a former tenant who has already vacated can be difficult. Small claims court or a collection agency may be needed for recovery.

The Cost of Doing Nothing

The biggest cost in any eviction is delay. A tenant who owes $2,000 in rent and stays two extra months due to a procedural error costs the landlord $4,000–$6,000 in lost rent alone, before counting legal fees. Getting the notices and filings right the first time is always the least expensive path.

951 Evictions offers affordable, flat-rate eviction services for landlords in Riverside and San Bernardino County. Call or text us at (951) 580-0388 for a free quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to evict a tenant in California?

A straightforward California eviction typically costs $800–$1,500 in filing fees, service costs, and attorney fees for an uncontested case. Contested cases — where the tenant fights back — can cost $3,000–$10,000 or more depending on the complexity and court time involved.

What are the court filing fees for an unlawful detainer in California?

California Superior Court filing fees for an unlawful detainer start at approximately $385 and can range higher depending on the county and amount of past-due rent claimed. Additional fees apply for the summons, sheriff service of the writ of possession, and lockout.

Can a landlord recover attorney fees from a tenant in an eviction?

Only if the lease agreement includes an attorney-fee clause. California courts will typically only award attorney fees if the lease specifically provides for them. Even then, collecting from a departing tenant can be difficult without a judgment and wage or bank levy.