Fill Your Texas Petition Eviction Form Launch Texas Petition Eviction Editor Now

Fill Your Texas Petition Eviction Form

The Texas Petition Eviction form is a legal document used by landlords to initiate eviction proceedings against tenants who have failed to pay rent. This form outlines the reasons for eviction, the amount of rent owed, and requests the court to issue a judgment for possession of the property. If you need to fill out this form, click the button below to get started.

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Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Texas Petition Eviction form, it’s important to follow specific guidelines to ensure your petition is processed correctly. Here are six things you should and shouldn't do:

  • Do provide accurate information about the premises. Ensure that the street address, unit number, city, county, state, and zip code are all correct.
  • Do check the appropriate boxes regarding rent. Indicate whether you are seeking a judgment for unpaid rent and specify the rent due date.
  • Do clearly state the grounds for eviction. Detail the violation of the rental agreement, including the dates for which rent has not been paid.
  • Don't omit any required signatures. Make sure that the form is signed by you or your authorized agent before submission.
  • Don't forget to include any additional requests for judgment. If you are seeking attorney's fees or post-judgment interest, make sure to check the appropriate boxes and provide the necessary details.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing it. Double-check for any errors or missing information that could delay your case.

Sample - Texas Petition Eviction Form

Petition for Eviction Based on Non-Payment of Rent

Case No.

§ In the Justice Court of

 

 

§

Harris County, Texas

Plaintiff

§

 

vs.

§

 

 

 

§

Precinct ______, Place ______

Defendant

§

 

1.COMPLAINT. Plaintiff files the complaint against the above-named defendant(s) to evict defendant(s) from plaintiff’s premises, which is located in the above precinct and which is described below.

 

Street Address or Other Description

 

Unit No. (If any)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City

 

 

 

 

 

County

State

Zip

2. SUIT FOR MONEY. RENT. Plaintiff (check one.)

does

does not seek a judgment for rent.

 

 

Rent is due on the ________ day of the (check one)

Month

Week

__________ (specify other rent paying period). The rent is

 

$____________ per

Month

Week

______(specify other rent paying period) The defendant(s) rent (check one)

is not subsidized

by the government is subsidized by the government as follows:

$__________ paid by the government, and $___________ paid by the defendant(s).

3.SERVICE OF CITATION. Plaintiff requests service of citation on defendant(s) by personal service at the above described premises. Other addresses of defendant(s) listed in the written lease agreement are as follows:

Landlord knows no other work or residence addresses for Tenant(s).

4.GROUNDS FOR EVICTION. Defendant(s) have violated the rental agreement between plaintiff and defendant(s) and have refused to vacate after notice from plaintiff. The rental agreement violation involved defendant(s) failure to pay the rent for the period beginning the _______ day of _________________________________(Month) 20____, and running through the present, which is still due and unpaid.

5.JUDGMENT REQUESTED. Plaintiff requests judgment for plaintiff and against defendant(s) for possession of the premises and for issuance of a writ of possession, and all court costs. Additionally, plaintiff requests judgment for the plaintiff and against defendant(s) for the following:

a.Rent. If the eviction is based on the breach of an agreement to pay rent, plaintiff requests judgment for unpaid rent in the amount of $________________________, as calculated at time of filing, and plaintiff also seeks judgment for rent accruing from the date of filing and becoming due thereafter.

b. Attorney’s Fees. If plaintiff engages an attorney, plaintiff requests judgment for attorney’s fees

because (check one)

a written

agreement, binding on defendant(s), contains a provision entitling plaintiff to attorney’s fees, or

plaintiff gave the 10-day notice as

required by Sec. 24.006, Texas Property Code.

 

 

c.Post-judgment interest. If plaintiff is granted a judgment, plaintiff requests post-judgment interest as allowed by statute or the rental agreement.

The Court may send any notice to plaintiff

 

 

PLAINTIFF:

 

Via U. S. mail, email, telephone or fax, as follows:

 

(as stated at top of page)

 

 

 

 

By

 

Street address

 

 

 

Signature

 

 

 

 

 

City

State

Zip

 

Print name of person signing Title

 

 

 

 

The above is the signature of: (check one)

Phone number

Fax number

plaintiff or

plaintiff’s authorized agent or

plaintiff’s attorney

Subscribe and Sworn to before me on this the __________day of_______________________, 20_______.

 

___________________________________________________________

 

 

 

Notary Public in and for State of Texas

-OR- Justice Court Clerk

 

 

 

9.01.2005

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Documents used along the form

When navigating the eviction process in Texas, several key documents accompany the Texas Petition Eviction form. Understanding these forms can streamline the process and ensure all necessary information is provided. Here’s a brief overview of five essential documents commonly used in conjunction with the eviction petition.

  • Notice to Vacate: This document informs the tenant that they must leave the property by a specified date. It outlines the reasons for the eviction, such as non-payment of rent, and serves as a formal warning before legal action is taken.
  • Affidavit of Service: After serving the eviction notice, the landlord may need to complete this affidavit. It confirms that the tenant received the notice and includes details about how and when it was delivered.
  • Lease Agreement: This contract outlines the terms of the rental arrangement between the landlord and tenant. It is crucial for establishing the obligations of both parties and can provide evidence of any violations that justify eviction.
  • Answer to Eviction Suit: If the tenant contests the eviction, they may file this document in response to the petition. It allows the tenant to present their side of the story and any defenses they may have against the eviction.
  • Writ of Possession: If the court rules in favor of the landlord, this document authorizes law enforcement to remove the tenant from the property. It is the final step in the eviction process, ensuring the landlord can regain possession of their premises.

Each of these documents plays a vital role in the eviction process. Being familiar with them can help landlords and tenants alike navigate their rights and responsibilities effectively. Always consider consulting a legal professional for guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Common mistakes

When filling out the Texas Petition Eviction form, individuals often make critical mistakes that can hinder their case. One common error is failing to provide complete and accurate information about the defendant. This includes the defendant's full name, current address, and any other relevant identifying details. Incomplete information can lead to delays in the legal process or even dismissal of the case.

Another frequent mistake involves the section regarding the amount of rent due. Plaintiffs sometimes neglect to specify the exact amount owed or the period for which rent is unpaid. This oversight can create confusion and may weaken the plaintiff's position in court. It is essential to clearly state the amount of rent due and the time frame in which it accrued.

Additionally, many people overlook the importance of checking the appropriate boxes in the form. For example, failing to indicate whether the rent is subsidized by the government or not can complicate the case. This detail is crucial for the court to understand the financial arrangement between the plaintiff and defendant. Ensuring that all applicable boxes are checked is vital for a smooth process.

Lastly, plaintiffs often forget to sign the document or have it notarized. A signature is necessary to validate the petition, and without it, the court may not accept the filing. Additionally, if the document requires notarization, failing to complete this step can result in further complications. Timely attention to these details is essential to avoid unnecessary delays in the eviction process.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Texas Petition Eviction form can be challenging, and several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Below are five common misconceptions about this form, clarified to help individuals navigate the eviction process more effectively.

  • The form can only be used for non-payment of rent. Many believe that the Texas Petition Eviction form is exclusively for cases where rent has not been paid. However, this form can also address other violations of the rental agreement, such as damage to the property or illegal activities.
  • Filing the form guarantees immediate eviction. Some individuals think that submitting the form will result in an instant eviction. In reality, the process involves several steps, including a court hearing where both parties can present their cases before a decision is made.
  • Tenants have no rights once the form is filed. A common misconception is that tenants lose all rights once an eviction petition is filed. This is not true. Tenants have the right to contest the eviction in court and can present their defense, which may include reasons for non-payment or disputes over the lease terms.
  • Only landlords can file the eviction petition. While it is true that landlords typically file the petition, tenants can also seek legal recourse if they believe the eviction is unjust. Tenants may file a counterclaim or seek assistance from legal aid organizations.
  • Eviction is a simple process. Many assume that the eviction process is straightforward and quick. In reality, it can be complex and time-consuming, often requiring multiple court appearances and adherence to specific legal procedures to ensure both parties' rights are respected.

Awareness of these misconceptions can empower both landlords and tenants to approach the eviction process with a clearer understanding, ensuring that their rights and responsibilities are upheld throughout.

Key takeaways

Here are key takeaways for filling out and using the Texas Petition Eviction form:

  1. Identify the Parties: Clearly state the names of the plaintiff (landlord) and defendant (tenant) at the top of the form.
  2. Provide Property Details: Include the complete address of the rental property, including unit number, city, county, state, and zip code.
  3. Specify Rent Payment Period: Indicate whether the rent is due monthly, weekly, or on another schedule, and fill in the specific due date.
  4. Indicate Rent Amount: Clearly state the amount of rent due and specify if any portion is subsidized by the government.
  5. Service of Citation: Request personal service of citation on the defendant at the rental property address.
  6. Grounds for Eviction: Clearly outline the reasons for eviction, focusing on the failure to pay rent and any relevant rental agreement violations.
  7. Request for Judgment: Specify what you are asking the court to grant, including possession of the premises and any unpaid rent.
  8. Attorney’s Fees: If applicable, check the appropriate box to request attorney’s fees based on a written agreement or notice provided.
  9. Post-Judgment Interest: Indicate if you are requesting post-judgment interest as allowed by law or the rental agreement.
  10. Signature Requirements: Ensure the form is signed by the plaintiff or their authorized agent, and include contact information for communication.

Filling out the form accurately is crucial for a successful eviction process. Make sure to keep a copy for your records.

File Characteristics

Fact Name Details
Purpose The Texas Petition for Eviction form is used to initiate eviction proceedings against a tenant for non-payment of rent.
Governing Law This form is governed by the Texas Property Code, specifically Section 24.001 et seq.
Filing Location The form must be filed in the Justice Court of the precinct where the rental property is located.
Complaint Section The complaint section outlines the plaintiff's request to evict the tenant based on specific grounds.
Rent Details The form allows the plaintiff to specify the amount of rent due and whether it is subsidized by the government.
Service of Citation The plaintiff can request personal service of citation on the defendant at the rental premises.
Grounds for Eviction Eviction is typically based on the tenant's failure to pay rent as per the rental agreement.
Judgment Requests The plaintiff can request possession of the premises, unpaid rent, attorney's fees, and post-judgment interest.
Signature Requirement The form must be signed by the plaintiff or their authorized agent, and it may require notarization.
Deadline for Filing Eviction proceedings should be initiated promptly after the tenant fails to pay rent to avoid delays.

How to Use Texas Petition Eviction

After gathering all necessary information, the next step involves completing the Texas Petition Eviction form. This form must be filled out accurately to ensure that the eviction process can proceed smoothly. Below are the steps to complete the form.

  1. Fill in the Case Number: Write the case number in the designated space at the top of the form.
  2. Identify the Court: Indicate the Justice Court of Harris County.
  3. List the Plaintiff: Enter your name as the plaintiff in the space provided.
  4. Identify the Defendant: Write the name of the defendant(s) in the appropriate section.
  5. Precinct Information: Fill in the precinct and place numbers as applicable.
  6. Describe the Premises: Provide the street address, unit number (if any), city, county, state, and zip code of the premises from which you are seeking eviction.
  7. Indicate Suit for Money: Check the appropriate box to indicate whether you seek a judgment for rent.
  8. Specify Rent Due: Write the due date of the rent and check the appropriate frequency (month, week, etc.). Enter the amount of rent due.
  9. Government Subsidy: Indicate whether the rent is subsidized by the government and specify the amounts paid by both the government and the defendant(s).
  10. Service of Citation: Request service of citation on the defendant(s) by personal service at the premises and list any other addresses known.
  11. Grounds for Eviction: State the grounds for eviction, including the violation of the rental agreement and the period for which rent is unpaid.
  12. Judgment Requested: Specify the type of judgment you are requesting, including possession of the premises and any amounts for unpaid rent.
  13. Attorney’s Fees: Indicate whether you seek attorney's fees and check the appropriate box regarding the basis for this request.
  14. Post-Judgment Interest: Request post-judgment interest if applicable.
  15. Provide Contact Information: Fill in your contact information, including street address, phone number, and email.
  16. Signature: Sign and date the form, and indicate whether you are the plaintiff, authorized agent, or attorney.
  17. Notary Section: If required, leave space for the notary public or justice court clerk to sign.