Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Georgia
I came home today to find a notice on my doorknob stating that my landlord had begun eviction proceedings and that I have 7 days to respond. How long do I have to find a new place to stay? She has never asked us to move out & we were trying to catch up on our late rent, with the last payment being on 11/13/10.
2 Answers from Attorneys
You have until a judgment is entered and the sheriff or marshall shows up, without notice, to put your property on the street. Obviously, you don't want to risk that happening. Try to work it out with the landlord (either paying, or agreeing to move).
If you fail to respond within 7 days, expect your belongings to be dumped into the street almost immediatelty thereafter. Also expect that there will be a judgment against you for unpaid rent, which can later translate into a garnishment of your wages and bank account.
If you need more time (and that may or may not be possible) you will need to hire a lawyer.