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HB 2835

landlord tenant; settlement conferences

57th Legislature - First Regular Session Introduced by Cesar Aguilar and 9 co-sponsors

Arizona requires mandatory settlement conferences in landlord-tenant disputes before eviction, aiming to reduce court caseloads and enable negotiated housing solutions.

House Second Reading
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Bill Summary · HB 2835

Legislative bill overview

HB 2835 establishes a mandatory settlement conference process in Arizona landlord-tenant disputes before cases proceed to eviction hearings. The bill requires both parties to participate in a structured negotiation attempt facilitated by a neutral third party, with specific timelines and procedures governing the process.

Why is this important

Settlement conferences can reduce court caseloads, lower costs for both landlords and tenants, and potentially preserve housing by enabling parties to reach compromises outside formal eviction proceedings. For tenants facing displacement, this creates an opportunity to negotiate payment plans or lease modifications before losing housing; for landlords, it can expedite resolution of unpaid rent or lease violations.

Potential points of contention

  • Burden on small landlords: Requiring conferences adds time and procedural steps that may disproportionately affect individual property owners who lack legal resources, while larger management companies have dedicated staff
  • Effectiveness concerns: Mandatory settlement conferences only work if parties negotiate in good faith; if tenants or landlords refuse genuine compromise, the process becomes an additional delay rather than a solution
  • Enforceability and funding: The bill's success depends on adequate funding for neutral facilitators and clear enforcement mechanisms; unclear procedures could lead to inconsistent application across counties

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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