A Texas eviction for nonpayment usually begins with a written notice to vacate, but the lease and the facts can change the required timing. Filing too early or using a defective notice can cause the case to be dismissed and force the process to start over.
Check the lease before preparing the notice
Texas law provides a default notice period, but a written lease may provide a different period or waiver. Confirm the rent ledger, the lease terms, and whether any payment arrangement changes the amount currently due.
State the amount and the deadline clearly
The notice should identify the premises, the basis for termination, the amount demanded where appropriate, and the date by which the tenant must pay or vacate. Do not rely on a generic form that ignores the lease or current balance.
Service and filing are separate steps
Delivering the notice is not the same as serving the court citation. Keep proof of how and when the notice was delivered, then follow the justice court's filing and service requirements if the tenant does not comply.
When an attorney-drafted notice helps
A notice prepared around the lease, payment history, and Texas procedure can prevent avoidable defects before filing. Local rules and property-specific facts still need to be confirmed during intake.