There are two main kinds of evictions (actually there is a third kind, but that wouldn't apply to you).
A Landlord's Petition is for when the tenant owes you rent. However, the tenant can cancel the eviction by paying the rent (but not late fees or court costs) the day of court.
An Unlawful Detainer is for when the tenant has violated the lease. It generally takes longer because the tenant first has to be sent a letter of termination because of a violation. If the tenant hasn't corrected the violation, after the time is up you then file an Unlawful Detainer.
How long it takes depends on which county you are in. Some have bigger backlogs than others. After the court hearing, a tenant has 10 days to appeal. When that time is up, then you can file for possession and wait for the sheriff to set a time.
I would feel very fortunate to have a tenant out within 10 weeks. I have had ones that took almost a year, but that was some years back. I think things are faster now. But, a lot depends on which county you are in.
If you aren't familiar with the law, and especially if you are in California, it would be wise to hire an attorney who is familiar with MO Landlord/Tenant law.
Some persons do cash for keys, which is irritating to do, but in the long run may save time and monehy.
Incidentally, what is up with California landlords and Missouri property? How did you come to own property in Missouri? You are the second CA landlord this week asking how to evict in Missouri. There are a few successful landlords who own out of state property - but they are the exceptional ones.
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eviction (by elizabeth [CA]) Jul 13, 2010 6:57 PM
eviction (by g [FL]) Jul 13, 2010 7:05 PM