After the judgment: writs, moving out and money owed

After a judgment for possession, the landlord asks the clerk for a writ (or warrant) of possession and pays a fee. The sheriff, marshal or constable serves or posts it; the tenant then has a short period — often 24 hours to 14 days depending on the state — before removal.

States have rules on belongings left behind: how long the landlord must store them, what notice to give, and when they can be sold or thrown away. Never remove belongings before the officer carries out the writ.

A money judgment for unpaid rent can be collected like any other judgment (wage garnishment, bank levy), subject to state exemptions. The security deposit must still be accounted for under state law, usually with an itemized statement within a set number of days.

Either side can usually appeal within a short deadline. A tenant may need to post a bond or pay rent into court to stay in the home during an appeal. Some courts can grant a short stay for hardship.