Removing a squatter in Arizona isn’t an overnight process. How long it takes depends on the legal approach you take. If you act quickly and follow the proper eviction steps, you can remove a squatter in as little as a few weeks. But if they fight back, it can drag on for months—or even years in extreme cases.
Want to know exactly how long it will take? Here’s the timeline for different scenarios.
Immediate Removal (0-3 Days) – Police Intervention
If the squatter has just entered the property, law enforcement may remove them immediately.
When This Works:
The squatter broke into the property (clear trespassing).
They haven’t been there long enough to claim residency.
You can prove no rental agreement exists.
Act FAST—once they establish “residency,” police may require a formal eviction.
Timeframe: 0-3 days if law enforcement handles it immediately.
Standard Eviction Process (3-6 Weeks)
If law enforcement won’t remove them, you must file an eviction lawsuit.
Eviction Timeline in Arizona:
Day 1: Serve the squatter a 5-Day Notice to Quit.
Day 6: If they don’t leave, file an eviction (Special Detainer) lawsuit in court.
Week 2-3: The court sets a hearing date (usually within 5-10 days).
Week 3-4: If the squatter doesn’t show up, you win by default. If they fight it, a judge decides.
Week 4-5: If you win, request a Writ of Restitution (official court order for removal).
Week 5-6: The sheriff removes the squatter if they don’t leave voluntarily.
This is the most common scenario. Expect 3-6 weeks total.
Timeframe: 3-6 weeks for full legal eviction.
Delayed Eviction (2-4 Months) – If the Squatter Fights Back
If the squatter challenges the eviction, the case can drag on.
Ways They Can Stall the Process:
Filing bogus claims of tenancy or lease agreements.
Requesting court delays or appealing the eviction.
Using free legal aid programs to fight removal.
If they fight it in court, prepare for extra delays.
Timeframe: 2-4 months if contested.
Longest Cases (1+ Years) – Adverse Possession Claims
If the squatter has been on the property for years, they might claim ownership.
For Adverse Possession, They Must Prove:
Continuous occupancy for 10 years (or 3-5 years with special conditions).
Payment of property taxes.
Open and notorious possession (not hiding their occupancy).
If they meet the requirements, the case can take YEARS to resolve.
Timeframe: 1+ years if they claim ownership and fight it.
Final Takeaway: Act Fast or Expect Delays
How long a squatter stays depends on how quickly you take legal action.
Estimated Timelines for Squatter Removal in Arizona:
0-3 Days – If police remove them for trespassing.
3-6 Weeks – If you follow the standard eviction process.
2-4 Months – If the squatter fights in court.
1+ Years – If they claim adverse possession.
The key is acting immediately—delays only give squatters more legal ground to fight.
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