Riverside County Eviction Defense Resources for Tenants
Riverside County is one of the fastest-growing counties in California and has seen a significant increase in unlawful detainer (eviction) filings in recent years. If you are a tenant facing eviction in Riverside County, it is critical that you understand your rights and the specific procedures that apply to your case.
Which Riverside County Courthouse Handles My Eviction Case?
Unlawful detainer cases in Riverside County are filed at the courthouse closest to where the rental property is located. Six couthouse locations preside over unlawful detainer cases:
These courthouses are open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
How Do I Get Information About My Riverside County Eviction Case?
To discuss your unlawful detainer case with a court clerk by telephone, call the Riverside County Courts Civil Division Call Center at (951) 777-3147, Monday through Friday between 7:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
What Tenant Protections Apply in Riverside County?
California's statewide AB 1482 Tenant Protection Act applies to many rental units throughout Riverside County, providing just cause eviction protections and annual rent-increase limits for qualifying tenants. Several cities within Riverside County have also enacted additional local tenant protection ordinances. Call our office at (657) 510-6534 to discuss whether state or local protections apply to your situation.
If You Have Received a Summons, Act Immediately
If you have received an Unlawful Detainer Summons in Riverside County, call our office immediately at (657) 510-6534. Our staff is available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., to discuss your situation and help you understand your rights and options.
California tenants generally have as little as 10 court days to respond to an Unlawful Detainer Summons. Missing this deadline can result in a default judgment and a Sheriff's Lockout.
Superior Court of California, County of Riverside
Courthouse locations and hours, civil filing information, self-help resources, Judicial Council forms, and public case access are published by the Court itself.
Before You File Your Response
These guides explain the deadlines, the filing mechanics, and the defenses available to California tenants in an unlawful detainer proceeding.
How Long Do I Have to Respond?
Your deadline depends entirely on how the Summons was served — personally, by substituted service, by posting, or by mail. Each starts the clock differently.
Read the guide →How Do I Respond?
The Court will accept an Answer, a Motion to Quash, a Motion to Strike, or a Motion for Demurrer. Each carries a filing fee that may be waived.
Read the guide →How to Stop an Eviction
Six lawful options are available after a Summons is served, from challenging improper service to negotiating a stipulation.
Read the guide →Affirmative Defenses
Twenty-one defenses are available to California tenants. A defective notice, a habitability failure, or a retaliatory motive may defeat the eviction entirely.
Read the guide →Recent Changes to the Law
AB 2347 response deadlines, the 2026 habitability and deposit statutes, and the SPARE Act service-of-process reforms.
Read the guide →All County Resources
Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego county guidance in one place.
Read the guide →Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I go for my eviction hearing in Riverside County?
The courthouse nearest the rental property. Check the first page of your Summons and Complaint for the assigned location.
How long do I have to respond to an eviction summons in Riverside County?
The deadline to respond to an unlawful detainer summons is very short. Do not wait — call (657) 510-6534 as soon as you are served.
Does AB 1482 protect me from eviction?
If your unit qualifies, your landlord needs just cause to terminate your tenancy after 12 months and must observe the state's rent-increase cap. Coverage depends on the age and type of your building.
Serving Tenants Throughout Riverside County
Tenant Eviction Defense proudly serves tenants throughout Riverside County, including:
Published August 5, 2026.
Eviction Defense & Tenant's Rights
Rapid Response Phone Number
(657) 510-6534
Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. All calls are confidential.