DeKalb County is one of the most densely populated counties in Georgia, with a large rental market spanning Decatur, Tucker, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Chamblee, Doraville, and parts of Atlanta. Here's what landlords need to know about the dispossessory process in DeKalb County.
Filing in DeKalb County
Dispossessory affidavits in DeKalb County are filed with the DeKalb County Magistrate Court in Decatur. DeKalb handles a high volume of cases and has established procedures that require careful attention to filing details.
Filing fee: DeKalb County's filing fee typically ranges from $75–$125. Confirm the current fee with the clerk's office before filing.
Filing location: The DeKalb County Magistrate Court is located at the DeKalb County Courthouse in Decatur.
Service of the Summons
After filing, the DeKalb County Marshal's Office serves the summons on the tenant. Service in DeKalb County typically takes 5–10 days from the filing date. The marshal attempts personal service first; tack-and-mail is used when the tenant is unavailable.
The Answer Window
The tenant has 7 calendar days from service to file a written answer. DeKalb County has a notable rate of tenant answers — particularly in areas near Atlanta where tenant advocacy resources are accessible. Prepare for the possibility of a contested hearing.
Hearings in DeKalb County
If the tenant files an answer, the case is scheduled for a hearing before a DeKalb County Magistrate Court judge. Hearing dates are typically set 2–3 weeks after the answer is filed.
DeKalb County hearings require thorough documentation. Bring your signed lease, complete rent ledger, proof of notice service, and all relevant communication records.
Set-Out Scheduling
After the writ of possession is issued, contact the DeKalb County Marshal's Office to schedule the set-out. DeKalb County set-out scheduling typically takes 1–3 weeks from writ issuance, depending on the marshal's current docket.
Key Contacts
- DeKalb County Magistrate Court: 556 N McDonough St, Decatur, GA 30030
- DeKalb County Marshal's Office: Handles summons service and set-out scheduling
W.D.S. in DeKalb County
W.D.S. Eviction Service handles dispossessory cases throughout DeKalb County — from Decatur to Tucker to Lithonia. We know the local procedures and move cases efficiently.
Call us at (404) 795-5069 to start your DeKalb County eviction case.
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