Cal. Civ. Code § 534.140
Both parties appear — proceedings
Operative Text
When both parties appear before the judge in person, or by agent or attorney, at the time appointed for the trial of the cause, the judge shall proceed to examine the complaint and proofs of the parties, and judgment shall thereupon be rendered according to the finding of the judge, as herein directed.
Missouri Revised Statutes § 534.140 governs what happens when both a landlord and a tenant appear before a judge—either personally or through a representative—at a scheduled eviction hearing. Under this provision, the judge is required to review the complaint and any evidence submitted by both sides, then issue a judgment based on those findings. The rule ensures that when both parties show up, the case proceeds on the merits rather than by default.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Mo. Rev. Stat. § 534.140, when a landlord or their authorized agent or attorney appears at the scheduled hearing, the judge will examine the complaint and supporting evidence presented by both sides. Compliant operators typically come prepared with documentation such as lease agreements, notices, and payment records to substantiate their complaint. Appearing through a qualified representative is permitted, but that representative should be ready to present all relevant proofs at the time of trial.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Mo. Rev. Stat. § 534.140 establishes that when a tenant appears at the scheduled hearing—personally or through an agent or attorney—the judge must consider the tenant's evidence alongside the landlord's complaint before rendering a judgment. This means a tenant who shows up has the opportunity to present proofs and contest the landlord's claims on the record. Tenants who have questions about what evidence to gather or what rights they hold at such a hearing may find it helpful to consult a local tenant-rights organization or legal aid office before the hearing date.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 14, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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