In-Person Eviction Hearings are NOT Suspended in Tulsa

Tulsa County District Court announced that in-person hearings are suspended from December 8, 2020 through January 11, 2021. But, that does not apply to eviction hearings!

Eviction hearings are still being held in-person at the Tulsa County Family Center for Juvenile Justice.

While other hearings are suspended or being held virtually, eviction hearings are still being held in person. It is very important that you go to your hearing!

If you do not go to your hearing date, the judge will issue a “default” eviction judgment against you without considering your side of the story. The landlord can then remove you from your home 48 hours after the hearing. At your hearing the judge may also order you to pay money to your landlord, and you will not be able to challenge the order or the amount after the hearing.

You may be protected from eviction under the CDC eviction moratorium.

A lawyer can advise you whether you qualify for protection under the CDC eviction moratorium, which prohibits landlords from evicting tenants for non-payment of rent until after December 31, 2020. The CDC eviction moratorium covers tenants who are unable to pay full rent, are making their best effort to pay part of the rent, are making their best effort to obtain government assistance for rent and housing, meet income requirements, and would be forced into crowded or unsafe housing. If you are eligible, you must sign a declaration and give a copy to your landlord. Read our earlier blog post on the CDC eviction moratorium to learn more.

Free lawyers are available to represent tenants who qualify.

Lawyers are available at eviction court to provide you with free advice and representation. A lawyer can…

• find legal protections you may not be aware of and can make sure that they are applied in your case;
• negotiate for a better outcome for you if you do have to move out, including more time to move so you can find a new home and avoid leaving behind belongings that you may not be able to recover after you move out; and
• negotiate and reduce any money that you owe to your landlord.

Call 2-1-1 or visit www.oklegalconnect.org immediately for free legal advice. Even if you cannot call in advance, free legal representation is available at eviction court for those who qualify.