a. “Eviction” or “eviction action” as used herein shall mean forcible detainer actions and special detainer actions as defined in this rule.

b. “Ex parte communications” are communications between a litigant or its attorney and a judge, without including the opposing party. Ex parte communications are generally prohibited. However, a communication with a judge in open court on a date and at a time when all litigants have been notified that the issue will be addressed is not an ex parte communication.

c. “Forcible detainer” shall have the same meaning as set forth at A.R.S. §§ 12-1173 and 12-1173.01.

d. “Good cause” shall mean a stated, substantial reason, the accommodation of which will serve the interests of fairness and justice, without also causing a significant delay or harm to another party. Good cause may include relieving a person from the consequences of a mistake or inadvertence, but not from simple neglect.

e. “Initial return date” is the date scheduled for the first appearance by the defendant following service of the summons and complaint. This shall also be known as the “initial appearance date,” or the “trial date.”

f. “Personal service” shall mean person-to-person delivery of any pleading or notice to the intended recipient. If service is made at the residence, delivery of the papers to another person of suitable age and discretion who lives at the residence shall also qualify as “personal service.”

g. “Pertinent” shall mean anything that relates directly and significantly to the matter in issue.

h. “Post and mail service” shall have the same meaning as set forth in A.R.S. §§ 33-1377(B) and 33-1485(B).

i. “Rental agreement” shall include, but not be limited to, oral and written rental agreements and leases.

j. “Special detainer” refers to the procedures set forth at A.R.S. §§ 33-1377 and 33-1485.