If you have a legal case ongoing in another state and require testimony or documents from someone residing or conducting business in California, you'll need to domesticate your foreign or out-of-California subpoena. This process essentially grants your state subpoena legal authority within California, ensuring its enforceability.
Begin by securing a subpoena from the original issuing state.
File a request for domestication with the appropriate California court. This often involves completing specific forms and paying filing fees.
The California court will review your request and, if everything is in order, will issue a domesticated subpoena.
Once approved, you will receive a California-issued subpoena that is valid for service in any of the 58 counties.
California has 58 counties, each with its court procedures. Luckily, the core steps for subpoena domestication remain consistent across the state. Here’s a breakdown for each county
While the general steps remain consistent across California counties, filing procedures (e-filing vs. paper filing), required forms, and fees may vary. It’s crucial to check the specific courthouse website for the latest information. Consider consulting with an attorney if you have complex legal issues or require further guidance throughout the domestication process.
By utilizing this comprehensive guide and conducting further research on your specific county’s procedures, you can streamline the subpoena domestication process in California.