Table of Contents
Introduction
Evicting a tenant in Dallas County, Texas isn’t as simple as asking them to leave. Texas law outlines specific legal steps you must follow, or else risk having your case dismissed. This guide will walk you through the process so you can remove a non-paying or problematic tenant legally and efficiently.
1. Understand Legal Grounds for Eviction
Before starting the process, make sure you have a legal reason to evict a tenant. In Texas, common reasons include:
Non-payment of rent
Lease violations
Property damage
Holdover tenants (refusing to leave after lease ends)
📌 Tip: Always document the issue with written notices, photos, or communication logs.
2. Serve a Proper Notice to Vacate
The first official step is serving a Notice to Vacate. In most cases, this is a 3-day notice, unless the lease specifies a different time period.
📬 This notice must:
Be in writing
Clearly state the reason for eviction
Give the correct number of days to vacate
Be delivered by hand, mail, or posted on the inside of the front door
✅ NTX Eviction can handle this for you to ensure it’s done legally.
3. File the Eviction in the Right JP Court
If the tenant doesn’t leave by the deadline, you’ll file an Eviction Petition at the correct Justice of the Peace (JP) precinct based on where the rental property is located.
🗂 You’ll need:
The lease agreement
A copy of the Notice to Vacate
Filing fee (usually around $100–$150)
📌 There are 5 precincts in Dallas County – be sure to file in the one with jurisdiction over the property address.
4. Attend the Eviction Hearing
The court will schedule a hearing, typically 7–14 days after filing. Bring all documentation: lease, notices, photos, payment history, and any communication with the tenant.
🎯 If the judge rules in your favor, they’ll issue a judgment for possession.
📅 The tenant then has 5 days to appeal or vacate.
5. Request a Writ of Possession (If Needed)
If the tenant doesn’t leave after 5 days, you can request a Writ of Possession. This authorizes the constable to physically remove the tenant and change the locks.
⏱ This typically happens 24–72 hours after the writ is posted on the property.
How Long Does the Eviction Process Take in Dallas County?
On average:
Notice period: 3 days
Court filing to hearing: 7–14 days
Post-judgment waiting period: 5 days
Writ execution: 1–3 days
➡️ Total: 2 to 4 weeks, depending on court scheduling and tenant behavior.
Common Mistakes Landlords Make
🚫 Not using the correct notice form
🚫 Filing in the wrong precinct
🚫 Incomplete documentation
🚫 Trying to self-evict (changing locks, shutting off utilities)
All of these can delay your case or cause dismissal.
FAQs About the Texas Eviction Process
1. How long does the eviction process take in Dallas County, Texas?
The eviction process in Dallas County typically takes 2 to 4 weeks from start to finish. This includes the notice period, court scheduling, and waiting period after judgment. However, delays can occur if the tenant files an appeal or the court docket is backed up.
2. Do I have to hire an attorney to evict a tenant in Dallas County?
No, you are not legally required to hire an attorney, especially if you are the property owner. However, many landlords choose to work with eviction service providers like NTX Eviction to avoid mistakes, speed up the process, and ensure everything is handled properly.
3. Can I evict a tenant in Dallas County for not paying rent?
Yes. Non-payment of rent is the most common reason for eviction in Dallas County. You must first serve a 3-day Notice to Vacate, and if the tenant does not leave, you can file an eviction lawsuit in the appropriate Justice of the Peace (JP) court.
4. What happens if the tenant doesn't leave after I win the eviction case?
If the tenant doesn’t vacate within 5 days of the court ruling, you can request a Writ of Possession. A Dallas County constable will then post a 24-hour notice and physically remove the tenant if they remain on the property.
5. Where do I file an eviction in Dallas County, TX?
You must file the eviction in the Justice of the Peace precinct that covers the rental property’s address. Dallas County has five JP precincts, each serving different zip codes and cities. Filing in the wrong court may delay or dismiss your case.
NTX Eviction: We Handle the Process for You
At NTX Eviction, we specialize in eviction services across Dallas County and DFW Metroplex. We’ll:
✅ Draft and serve your notice legally
✅ File your eviction petition in the right court
✅ Represent you at the hearing
✅ Request writs and coordinate with constables
👉 Let us take the stress off your hands.