How To Arrange Service Of California Divorce Papers
After filing the initial divorce papers, arrange service using the method authorized for your case. A complete packet and accurate recipient information give the server a useful starting point.
Check The Packet Before Sending It
Follow the California Courts initial service instructions or your attorney’s directions. Do not assume marriage licenses, birth certificates, tax returns, and bank statements all belong in the initial packet. Required financial disclosures are a separate part of the divorce process.
Personal Delivery And Other Methods
The petitioner cannot serve their own initial papers. Personal delivery by an eligible adult is a common method. Other methods have conditions that must be met. Ordinary certified mail is not a universal substitute for proper service, and publication requires the applicable court process.
If the address is uncertain, tell JPL before ordering attempts. Locating work and additional addresses may involve a separate approved fee. A possible address is not a guarantee that the recipient lives there.
Ask About Timing Before Ordering
Send your actual deadline and ask which service level is available. The first attempt and completed service are different milestones. Avoid relying on an old article’s promise of completion within 48 hours or a single deadline for every divorce case.
Return The Proof Of Service
The server completes the appropriate proof based on what occurred. Confirm how it will be returned and who will file it with the court. Keep a copy with your case records.
Arrange Process Service With JPL
Send your completed papers, recipient details, service address, and deadline to JPL Process Service, LLC. We confirm the assignment, current price, and available service level before work begins. JPL serves the documents you supply; your attorney or court self-help center should answer questions about which papers to use and the procedure for your case.
Call (866) 754-0520 or review our process service FAQs.
