[joshuaheard]

In California, it's CCP 585.

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySectio....

It's a two step process. First your get the default entered if they don't respond, then you ask for judgment for damages. Maybe that's where the confusion lies. The default is entered by request almost automatically if they don't respond. Getting your judgment for damages requires evidence to prove your case.

[pnw_hazor]

Don't forget the third step, collecting on the judgment. This is often the hardest part.