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Eviction

Will an eviction filing follow me forever?

CAstarting_over_20261 month ago

I'm being evicted. Even if I move out before judgment, will the case show up on tenant screening?

1 reply

✓ Verified answer from a licensed attorney — shown first

Jamal Washington avatarJamal WashingtonVerified Attorney1 month ago

In CA, eviction records are sealed for the first 60 days after filing (CCP §1161.2). If the case is resolved within that window (you move, settle, or win), it stays sealed. If a judgment for the landlord is entered, the record becomes public and tenant-screening companies pick it up. So the strategic move when you can't realistically win is to negotiate a 'stipulated judgment with masking' — the landlord agrees to dismiss or to keep the record sealed in exchange for you moving out by a date certain (sometimes also a payment plan for back rent). Many landlords agree because it costs them nothing and gives them possession faster than a contested trial. Push for it.

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Please readThis is a community space for sharing personal experience — it is not legal advice, and posts here are not from Lawma or your attorney. We strongly encourage you to post under an anonymous handle, keep questions general, and avoid posting private details of your active case. For advice about your own situation, message your attorney.