California State Process Service

$179 Routine - $229 Rush

In California, service of process is governed by the California Code of Civil Procedure (CCP). Below is an overview of the key rules and procedures:

Who Can Serve Process?

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Cannot be a party to the case.
• Professional process servers or sheriff’s deputies are commonly used.

Methods of Service

1. Personal Service (Preferred Method):
   • The summons and complaint are handed directly to the defendant.
   • Considered complete at the time of delivery.
2. Substituted Service:
   • If personal service cannot be accomplished after reasonable diligence:
     • Documents may be left with someone at the defendant's home, workplace, or usual mailing address (not a P.O. box).
     • The person receiving the documents must be at least 18 and informed of their contents.
     • A copy must also be mailed to the defendant at the same address.
3. Service by Mail (With Notice and Acknowledgment):
   • Requires the defendant to sign and return an acknowledgment of receipt form.
   • Service is considered complete when the acknowledgment is signed.
4. Service by Publication:
   • Requires court approval.
   • Used only when the defendant cannot be located with due diligence.
   • Documents are published in a court-approved newspaper.
5. Service on Corporations or Other Entities:
   • Delivered to the registered agent for service of process, or an officer or authorized agent.

Deadlines for Service

• In most cases, the summons and complaint must be served within 60 days of filing the complaint.