Eviction FAQ | EvictPro Landlord Services — Fulton County, GA

Question 1

What is a dispossessory?

Accepted Answer

A dispossessory is the legal process in Georgia used to remove a tenant from a property. It begins with a written demand notice and, if the tenant does not comply, proceeds to a filing with the Magistrate Court. It is the formal legal term for what most people call an eviction.

Question 2

How long does the eviction process take in Georgia?

Accepted Answer

Most uncontested evictions in Fulton County take 3 to 5 weeks from the initial 3-day notice to the writ of possession. Contested cases — where the tenant disputes the eviction in court — can take longer depending on the court's schedule and the nature of the dispute.

Question 3

Do I have to go to court?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the landlord or their representative must appear at the Magistrate Court hearing. EvictPro will prepare you for what to expect and what documentation to bring. We handle all the paperwork and filing — you just need to show up for the hearing.

Question 4

What happens if the tenant doesn't show up to the hearing?

Accepted Answer

If the tenant fails to appear at the scheduled hearing, the judge will typically issue a default judgment in your favor. A writ of possession will then be issued, and the marshal will post notice requiring the tenant to vacate within 7 days.

Question 5

Can I change the locks or remove the tenant's belongings myself?

Accepted Answer

No. Self-help evictions — changing locks, removing belongings, or shutting off utilities to force a tenant out — are illegal in Georgia and can expose you to significant liability. You must follow the legal dispossessory process. EvictPro ensures you do it the right way.

Question 6

What counties do you serve?

Accepted Answer

EvictPro currently serves Fulton County, Georgia exclusively. Our focus on a single county means we know the local courts, clerks, and processes better than anyone.

Question 7

Do I need a lawyer to file a dispossessory?

Accepted Answer

In Georgia, landlords can file a dispossessory without an attorney. EvictPro handles the preparation and filing process for you. However, if your case is contested or involves complex legal issues, we may recommend consulting with a licensed attorney.

Question 8

How quickly can you file after I contact you?

Accepted Answer

We typically file within 48 hours of receiving your information and confirming the notice period has expired. For 3-day demand notices, we prepare them the same business day.

Question 9

What information do I need to provide to get started?

Accepted Answer

To get started, we'll need the tenant's name and address, the property address, the reason for eviction (non-payment of rent, lease violation, etc.), and confirmation of whether a demand notice has already been served. We'll walk you through everything on our intake call.

Question 10

What is your pricing?

Accepted Answer

We offer transparent, flat-rate pricing with no hidden fees. Contact us directly for current pricing on individual services and our full-service package. You'll know exactly what you're paying before we start.

Question 11

What is a writ of possession?

Accepted Answer

A writ of possession is a court order that authorizes the marshal to remove the tenant from your property. It is issued after a judgment in your favor. The tenant typically has 7 days after the writ is posted to vacate before the marshal enforces removal.

Question 12

What happens to the tenant's belongings after eviction?

Accepted Answer

Under Georgia law, once a writ of possession is executed, the tenant's personal property may be placed outside the unit. You are not required to store it. However, it is advisable to document the condition of the property and any belongings left behind.

Question 13

Can I recover unpaid rent through the dispossessory process?

Accepted Answer

The dispossessory process is focused on regaining possession of your property. To recover unpaid rent, you would need to file a separate civil claim in Magistrate Court for a money judgment. EvictPro can advise you on this process.

Common Questions About the Eviction Process.

The Eviction Process

Working With EvictPro

After the Filing

Still Have Questions?