How Long Does an Eviction Take in Denver?
A step-by-step look at the Colorado eviction timeline — from the first notice to the day you can finally clear the unit.
There’s no single magic number for how long a Denver eviction takes — it depends on the reason for the eviction, whether the tenant responds, and how busy the court is. But Colorado law lays out a clear sequence of notice periods and waiting periods. Here’s how that timeline generally unfolds, in plain English. This is general information, not legal advice — consult an attorney for your specific situation.
The Colorado Eviction Timeline, Step by Step
Step 1 — Written Notice
It starts with a written notice. For unpaid rent, Colorado law requires a demand giving the tenant a set number of business days to pay or move; for curable lease violations there’s a demand for compliance, and for serious “substantial” violations a shorter notice applies. If the tenant fixes the issue or pays within the window, the case usually ends here.
Step 2 — Filing & Summons
If the deadline passes, the landlord files an eviction (forcible entry & detainer) case in county court. The court issues a summons setting a hearing, generally a week or two out, and the tenant must be properly served before that date.
Step 3 — Court Hearing
At the hearing the tenant can answer or contest. Uncontested cases often resolve quickly; contested cases can be set for trial, which adds time. If the landlord prevails, the court enters judgment for possession.
Step 4 — Writ & Sheriff Lockout
After judgment, Colorado builds in a waiting period before a writ of restitution can be issued and again before the sheriff may carry it out. Only the county sheriff — not the landlord — can perform the actual lockout. Once that happens, you have lawful possession.
What Speeds It Up or Slows It Down
Tenant Response
An uncontested case moves fastest. If the tenant files an answer and contests, the court may set a trial date, which can add weeks.
Proper Service
The tenant must be served correctly and on time. A service problem can force a reset of the hearing.
Court Calendar
Denver’s eviction docket has been at record volume, so how quickly a hearing can be scheduled varies with caseload.
The Built-In Waits
Even a clean, uncontested case includes the notice period up front and the post-judgment waiting period before the sheriff acts — these can’t be skipped.
So, How Many Weeks?
Realistically, a straightforward, uncontested Denver eviction tends to run a few weeks from the first notice to the sheriff lockout, while a contested case can stretch considerably longer. We’re intentionally not quoting an exact day count here, because the real number depends on your facts and the court’s schedule. For an estimate tailored to your case, talk to an attorney or check the Colorado Judicial Branch residential-evictions self-help pages.
General sequence above reflects Colorado Judicial Branch guidance on residential evictions. Specific notice lengths and waiting periods are set by Colorado statute and can change — verify current requirements before acting. Not legal advice.
When the Timeline Ends, the Cleanout Begins
The hardest part for many landlords is the very end: a unit full of furniture, trash and belongings, and pressure to re-rent. That’s exactly where Junk Same Day comes in. Once the legal process is done and you have lawful possession, we clear the property fast — often same-day based on truck availability. Family-owned, licensed & insured, 4.8 stars from 146+ reviews, 60%+ donated or recycled.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an eviction take in Denver?
Can I change the locks or remove the tenant myself?
What starts the clock?
Why does a contested eviction take longer?
When can I have the unit cleaned out?
Where can I get the official process details?
Eviction Done? Let’s Clear the Unit.
Same-day service is often available based on truck availability across the Denver metro. Family-owned, licensed & insured, 4.8 stars from 146+ reviews.