What happens when a defendant fails to show up to a summary ejectment trial?

When a defendant fails to appear at a summary ejectment trial, the court may proceed with the hearing in their absence. The plaintiff can present their case, and if the court finds in favor of the plaintiff, it may issue a default judgment for eviction. The defendant typically loses the opportunity to contest the eviction or present their defense. Depending on local laws, the defendant may still have options to contest the judgment later, but this varies by jurisdiction.