Consequences of Failing to Answer a Dispossessory Affidavit: Understanding Tenant Default Judgments

Consequences of Failing to Answer a Dispossessory Affidavit: Understanding Tenant Default Judgments

Nemat Law Firm

April 17, 2024

Tweet Share Share

When a tenant fails to respond to a dispossessory affidavit in Georgia, significant consequences can follow. Here’s what happens when a tenant defaults:

Default Judgment: Failing to answer the affidavit results in a default judgment being issued against the tenant. A default judgment is a decision made by the court in favor of the plaintiff (landlord) when the defendant (tenant) does not respond within the required timeframe.
Loss of Possession: A default judgment could lead to the landlord gaining possession of the premises. The court issues a writ of possession, executed by law enforcement, to transfer the property from the tenant to the landlord.
Limited Legal Options: Once a default judgment is entered, the tenant’s legal options become limited. The court typically does not allow the tenant to present evidence or hold additional hearings. The judgment is based on the evidence provided in the landlord’s affidavit.

It’s essential for tenants to understand the serious implications of failing to respond to a dispossessory affidavit. Default judgments can result in the loss of possession of the premises, money judgment in favor of the landlord and limited recourse for the tenant.

Legal Disclaimer: This article is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Tenants facing eviction proceedings should seek professional legal assistance for specific legal questions and concerns.

Client Reviews

Mr. Sasan Nemat was a true Professional from beginning until the end. Hw handled my eviction case for me. He was knowledgeable and trustworthy.

Ivonne A.

I highly recommend Nemat Law Firm !! From start to finish Sasan was knowledgeable, honest , and proficient in handling my case. I am so grateful and please with the high level of professionalism that I...

Laqua A.

I Contacted Nemat Law Firm 2 days before my court date. Not only did someone answer my call, but they also took on my case. With less than 48hrs to gather information from me. Mr.Nemat stayed available around...

Lynette C.

I had a unique type of situation and was hard to find a lawyer to help me but thankfully I came across him! Assistant Katie is so sweet and and Mr. Nemat was so kind and professional and listened very well. He...

Aneka M.

I highly recommend NEMAT LAW FIRM if you have landlord issues as a tenant, My Attorney was unable to appear on my court date but he handed my case over attorney NEMAT a day for the court date but he quickly...

Emmanuel U.

My father and I worked with Mr. Nemat, and all I can say is we Won. Mr. Sasan is very polite regardless of which party he is addressing. My father raved about him completely. I have noticed some of the best...

Melissa A.

I have Nemat Law Firm on retainer and been using their services for over two years. As a business owner it's been very helpful to have them as my legal counsel. They also have worked on multiple real estate...

Park Creek Dental Care

My apartment was flooded when the sprinkler system in the neighbor's apartment above was activated. The apartment management was indifferent to my concerns. They ignored phone calls and emails, did not seem to...

Robert T.

Mr. Sasan and The Nemat Law Firm provided me with answers to all the questions I had regarding my unique case. We were on tight schedule before my approaching court date and he was able to GET IT DONE. He was...

Sameer A.

I was illegally dispossessed of my property by two dishonest people who lived with me in the same house. He delivered me an effective, quick, and competent service by contacting the wrongdoers who finally were...

Vittorio I.

Submit a Law Firm Client Review