Eviction attorneys are professional lawyers specializing in landlord tenant law. Eviction laws change often, as rules are added, subtracted, amended, and updated, and people not familiar with the specific laws often consult eviction attorneys to understand their rights and responsibilities. Eviction attorneys are frequently hired by both landlords and tenants in eviction disputes. Eviction lawyers often help landlords understand eviction rules and procedures, and may help a landlord through the eviction process, from filing the initial papers to representing the landlord in court. Eviction attorneys also defend tenants in eviction hearings, and may locate witnesses and gather police reports and other pieces of evidence in order to make a case against eviction. Tenants also hire eviction attorneys when they have been illegally evicted, and attorneys often help return tenants to their homes after an unlawful eviction. The fees charged by eviction attorneys vary; a flat fee may be charged for simpler cases, while other cases may be charged at an hourly rate.