Frequently Asked Questions

How much does process serving cost in Kern County and California?

Standard service is $85 flat rate (first attempt within 48 hours), Priority Rush is $125 (within 24 hours), and Same-Day Emergency dispatch is $165. Each tier includes up to three attempts across varied hours and a completed Judicial Council Form POS-010 Proof of Service. See our fees page for full pricing.

How long does it take to serve documents?

Standard service begins within 48 hours of receipt and is typically completed within 3 to 5 business days. Priority Rush initiates within 24 hours, and Same-Day service is dispatched on the same calendar day for orders placed before 2:00 PM PT.

What happens if the person cannot be served personally?

After diligent personal attempts across morning, evening, and weekend hours, California law permits substituted service under CCP § 415.20(b) by leaving the papers with a competent adult at the residence or workplace and mailing a copy via first-class mail, accompanied by a sworn Declaration of Diligence.

Do I need to be present when documents are served?

No. Upload your PDF documents and recipient address through our online order form, and process servers handle delivery, mailing, and Proof of Service execution.

Can documents be served on weekends or evenings?

Yes. California permits service seven days a week, and staggering attempts across early morning, evening, and weekend hours is essential to satisfy CCP § 415.20(b) reasonable diligence.

What areas do you cover outside of Kern County?

We provide direct coverage across 21 major California counties—including Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, Fresno, Orange, San Diego, Santa Clara, Alameda, and Sacramento—with statewide dispatch available in all 58 counties.

How do I submit documents for service?

Upload your PDF pleadings directly on our online dispatch portal and select Standard ($85), Priority Rush ($125), or Same-Day ($165) service.

How are process servers regulated in California?

Under California Business and Professions Code § 22350, any individual or entity performing more than 10 services of process per year for compensation must file a certificate of registration and a $2,000 surety bond (§ 22353) with the County Clerk—never the Sheriff—and complete DOJ/FBI Live Scan background clearance (§ 22351.5).

What is substituted service under CCP § 415.20?

Substituted service (CCP § 415.20) allows documents to be left with a competent household member or person apparently in charge (age 18+) after reasonable diligence, followed by first-class mailing. Service is deemed complete on the 10th calendar day after mailing.

Do you serve temporary restraining orders (TROs)?

Yes. Civil harassment and domestic violence restraining orders require personal hand delivery prior to the hearing date and are routed for priority dispatch across Kern County and California.