About Process Serving Services
Process serving provides formal delivery of court documents and preparation of a proof describing the service. Requirements vary by document type, court, recipient and jurisdiction.
Not every office offers process serving and service areas differ. The customer is responsible for supplying complete documents, addresses, deadlines and any special instructions.
California availability: This page concerns self-help document preparation for California matters. Services, procedures and pricing vary by independently owned office.
Documents and information commonly requested
The exact package depends on the customer’s selected service, instructions and local requirements. Common items may include:
- Filed court documents
- Summons and petition packets
- Subpoenas where accepted
- Notices and motions
- Proof of service
- Declaration of attempts when offered
How document preparation works
Contact the office to confirm coverage, deadline, number of attempts and fee. Provide a complete service set, accurate recipient information and any known safety or access concerns.
You remain responsible for reviewing the completed documents, confirming that your information and directions were entered correctly, signing where required and meeting applicable deadlines. Ask the local office which clerical filing, recording, publication, notary or service options it offers.
Common questions
What does process serving services include?
Where offered, service may include delivery attempts and a completed proof of service. Coverage, attempt limits, rush fees and document restrictions vary.
Is process serving services available at every California By The People office?
No. Service availability, process, timing and pricing vary among independently owned California offices. Contact the office that would prepare your documents.
Can a By The People office tell me what choices to make?
No. The customer must select the service and provide the decisions and information used to prepare the documents. Offices do not provide legal advice or representation.
Are filing, recording, publication or service fees included?
Third-party charges are separate unless the local office specifically states otherwise in its written quote.