Cal. R. app. I Emergency Rule 1

As amended through July 24, 2024

Rule Emergency Rule 1 - Unlawful detainers

(a) Application

Notwithstanding any other law, including Code of Civil Procedure sections 1166, 1167, 1169, and 1170.5, this rule applies to all actions for unlawful detainer.

(b) Issuance of summons

A court may not issue a summons on a complaint for unlawful detainer unless the court finds, in its discretion and on the record, that the action is necessary to protect public health and safety.

(c) Entry of default

A court may not enter a default or a default judgment for restitution in an unlawful detainer action for failure of defendant to appear unless the court finds both of the following:

(1) The action is necessary to protect public health and safety; and

(2) The defendant has not appeared in the action within the time provided by law, including by any applicable executive order.

(d) Time for trial

If a defendant has appeared in the action, the court may not set a trial date earlier than 60 days after a request for trial is made unless the court finds that an earlier trial date is necessary to protect public health and safety. Any trial set in an unlawful detainer proceeding as of April 6, 2020 must be continued at least 60 days from the initial date of trial.

(e) Sunset of rule

This rule will remain in effect through September 1, 2020, or until amended or repealed by the Judicial Council. Notwithstanding Code of Civil Procedure 1170.5 and this subdivision, any trial date set under (d) as of September 1, 2020, will remain as set unless a court otherwise orders.

Cal. R. Ct. App I R. R. Emergency Rule 1

Emergency Rule 1 amended effective 8/13/2020; adopted effective 4/6/2020.