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with eviction notices

What is an eviction notice?

An eviction notice (often referred to as a ‘notice to vacate’ or ‘notice to quit’) is a formal written warning from a landlord to a tenant, letting them know that they must correct a lease violation or move out by a certain date. It’s the first legal step in the eviction process, and it needs to follow the right format and rules to hold up if the case goes to court.

Whether it’s for non-payment of rent, property damage, or something else, a properly written eviction notice gives both sides a clear understanding of what’s expected - and what happens next.

Do you need an attorney for an eviction notice?

You don’t always need an attorney to send an eviction notice, but getting it wrong can cost you time and money. If the notice isn’t written or delivered correctly, a judge may dismiss your case, even if the tenant has clearly broken the lease. When the goal is to move things forward smoothly and legally, having professional help can save a lot of stress. An attorney can help you:

• Draft the correct type of notice based on your situation
• Make sure all legal requirements are met
• Avoid language that could invalidate the notice
• Ensure you’re following proper delivery and timing rules

When should you hire an attorney for an eviction notice?

Legal advice early in the process can help set things up properly, so you’re not backtracking later. Typically, it’s a smart idea to speak to an attorney before sending a notice if you’re unsure which notice to use, if this is your first time going through the eviction process, or if you want to avoid mistakes that could delay the eviction.

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What an attorney brings to the table

Serving an eviction notice might seem simple, but getting it wrong can delay the process or even cause your case to be dismissed. An attorney helps you get it right from the start, protecting your position and saving time down the line.

A legally sound notice

Most states have specific rules about how and when an eviction notice must be delivered and what it needs to say. Your attorney will make sure your notice includes the correct legal language, covers the required details, and follows your state’s exact procedures. That way, you’re protected from technical errors that could slow things down or invalidate the notice entirely.

Confidence in your next steps

Once the notice is served, you need to know what comes next and when. Your attorney will guide you through the timeline, help you understand deadlines, and prepare you for what to do if the tenant doesn’t respond or refuses to comply.

Less risk, fewer delays

Mistakes in eviction paperwork are a common cause of court delays. With an attorney handling the details, you’re far less likely to miss a deadline or file incorrectly, so the process keeps moving forward, not backward.

How much does an eviction attorney cost?

The cost will depend on what kind of support you need - whether it’s reviewing a notice, drafting one from scratch, or handling the full eviction process if things escalate. At Lawhive, we believe in transparent pricing with no hidden costs - we don't charge by the hour like traditional law firms. You’ll know what you’re paying for each step of the way, with no hidden fees or surprises.

How long does the process take?

An eviction notice is typically the start of a timeline that includes waiting periods, response windows, and (if needed) court filings. If done properly, it can lead to a resolution within weeks, but delays are common when notices aren’t written or delivered correctly. An attorney helps you get it right from day one, so you can move forward without unnecessary holdups.

What you can expect from a Lawhive attorney

From the start, your Lawhive attorney is here to make things feel more manageable. You’ll speak with our experienced team early on so we can understand your situation and what kind of support you need. Then we’ll give you a clear idea of the process and what you can expect to pay.

We work with vetted local counsel in your state who take the time to understand your situation, explain your options in plain English, and guide you through every step. More importantly, they take the time to guide you, helping you understand your position, your rights, and what comes next.

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