Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

How does the eviction process work in Missouri?

Accepted Answer

In Missouri, the eviction process begins with a written notice to the tenant — typically a Notice to Quit or Pay or Vacate. If the tenant does not comply, the landlord files an unlawful detainer action in the appropriate court. After a hearing, if the court rules in the landlord's favor, a judgment for possession is entered and a Writ of Possession is issued, allowing the sheriff to remove the tenant.

Question 2

How long does an eviction take in Missouri?

Accepted Answer

The timeline varies by county and court docket, but a straightforward uncontested eviction in Missouri typically takes three to six weeks from filing to obtaining a Writ of Possession. Contested cases or appeals can extend the timeline significantly.

Question 3

Can I evict a tenant for non-payment of rent?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Non-payment of rent is one of the most common grounds for eviction in Missouri. You must first serve the tenant with a proper written notice demanding payment or vacating the premises. If the tenant fails to comply within the notice period, you may file an unlawful detainer action in court.

Question 4

Do you represent tenants in eviction matters?

Accepted Answer

No. W.S. Liesen Law Firm, LLC represents landlords only in landlord-tenant matters. We do not provide representation or legal advice to tenants.

Question 5

What is the difference between a collection agency and a collections attorney?

Accepted Answer

A collection agency can contact debtors and negotiate payment, but cannot take legal action. A collections attorney can do everything a collection agency does — and can also file lawsuits, obtain judgments, and enforce those judgments through garnishment, liens, and other legal remedies. This gives creditors significantly more leverage in recovering unpaid debts.

Question 6

What types of debt does W.S. Liesen Law Firm collect?

Accepted Answer

We handle consumer debt collections, landlord-tenant collections (unpaid rent and damages), commercial debt, and judgment collections. We represent creditors, landlords, and business owners throughout Missouri.

Question 7

What is skip tracing and do you use it?

Accepted Answer

Skip tracing is the process of locating a debtor who has moved or is otherwise avoiding contact — finding their current address, employer, and assets. Yes, we use skip tracing as part of our pre-suit investigation to locate debtors and identify collectible assets before recommending litigation.

Question 8

What happens after a judgment is obtained?

Accepted Answer

Once a judgment is entered, we can pursue enforcement through wage garnishment, bank account levies, liens on real property, and debtor examinations (requiring the debtor to disclose their assets under oath). We aggressively pursue every available legal remedy to collect the full amount owed.

Question 9

Where does W.S. Liesen Law Firm practice?

Accepted Answer

We are based in the St. Louis metro area and represent clients throughout the entire state of Missouri.

Question 10

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Complete our online client intake form at wsliesenlawfirm.com/intake. Select the case type that best describes your matter and provide the requested information. We will review your submission and follow up to discuss next steps.

Question 11

How do I pay my invoice?

Accepted Answer

You can pay your invoice securely online at wsliesenlawfirm.com/pay using our PracticePanther payment portal. If you have questions about your invoice, please contact our office.

Question 12

Does the firm offer custom collection strategies?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We recognize that a one-size-fits-all approach does not work for every client. We offer custom-tailored collection strategies based on your specific goals, the type of debt owed, and our experience with similar matters.

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