HB 2214 Summary

• Requires defendants in forcible entry and detainer cases to file written answers within 3 days of service and deliver copies to plaintiff; establishes automatic judgment for plaintiff if defendant fails to answer within the timeframe.

• Modifies service of process procedures to allow posting on premises as effective service method and permits private process servers, in addition to sheriff service.

• Changes writ of execution to writ of restitution for forcible entry judgments with no additional postjudgment court costs except service fees.

• Makes assignment to small claims docket permissive rather than mandatory and removes requirement that courts apply small claims fee limits to forcible entry cases (applies standard eviction procedures instead).

• Amends Oklahoma Residential Landlord and Tenant Act regarding notice requirements, termination procedures, tenant remedies for landlord non-compliance, and security deposit handling; effective November 1, 2013.