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The 5 most common eFiling rejection reasons in California - One Legal | An InfoTrack Company

Miraj Jallie — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Last updated October 19, 2026

If you’re the paralegal or legal assistant who handles your firm’s filings, you know a rejected eFiling rarely shows up at a convenient time. It lands an hour before the end of the day, or the week a deadline hits, and suddenly a routine filing needs to be fixed, re-uploaded, and resubmitted, often while an attorney is waiting to hear that it went through.

The cost goes beyond the few minutes it takes to refile. A rejection can push a filing past the date you planned for, eat into the time before a hearing, and pull you away from everything else on your plate, especially when you’re supporting more than one attorney. Near a deadline, there may not be room to refile at all.

It happens more often than you might think. According to One Legal and California court data, 8.5% of all submitted filings are rejected. The good news is that most rejections come from a familiar set of issues, and once you know what courts tend to send back, you can catch most of them before you submit.

What are the 5 most common reasons California eFilings get rejected?

Based on One Legal and California court data, the 5 most common reasons eFilings get rejected are:

Missing or incorrect case information
Incorrect filing code or document type
Document formatting issues
Incorrect court location
Incorrect case category or type

Together, these five account for more than two-thirds of all rejections. Missing documents (7%) and obsolete forms (5%) round out the list.

Rejection reason	Share of rejections	How to avoid it
Missing or incorrect case information	21%	Match the case number, party names, AKAs, and DBAs in the workflow to your documents
Incorrect filing code or document type	14%	Choose the closest matching document type and check the filing fee on the Review screen
Document formatting issues	14%	Separate or combine documents as the court requires, with text-searchable, bookmarked PDFs and consecutive page numbers
Incorrect court location	12%	Confirm the courthouse you select matches the address on your documents
Incorrect case category or type	7%	Match the case category to your initiating documents and, for civil cases, the Civil Case Cover Sheet

1. Missing or incorrect case information

Missing or incorrect case information is the single most common reason California eFilings get rejected. A wrong case number, a misspelled party name, or a missing AKA or DBA can send a filing back, even when the document itself is perfect.

Courts compare what you enter in the eFiling workflow against what’s on your documents. If the case number, party names, or roles don’t match exactly, the clerk is likely to reject the filing rather than correct it.

How to avoid it: Before you submit, confirm that the case number, party names, AKAs, and DBAs entered in the workflow match your documents and are in the correct fields.

Expert tip from Diane Andreoli, Senior Client Success Manager: “Ensure all party information listed on your documents matches exactly the party information entered in the workflow.”

2. Incorrect filing code or document type

Choosing the wrong document type, which clerks call the filing code, is the second most common reason for rejection. Each document type has its own procedural requirements and filing fee, so the wrong selection can stop a filing even when everything else is correct.

The document types in the eFiling drop-down menu come directly from the court. If the exact type for your filing isn’t listed, choose the most similar general option, and check the court’s website or call the clerk’s office if you’re unsure.

How to avoid it: Choose the document type that most closely matches the content and purpose of your filing. Then check the filing fee on the Review screen before you submit.

Pro tip: If the estimated court filing fee on the Review screen is missing or differs from what you expect, go back and review your document-type selections before submitting.

3. Document formatting issues

Document formatting issues are tied for the second most common reason for rejection. Common problems include PDFs that aren’t text-searchable, missing bookmarks, page numbers that don’t match the PDF’s own page numbers, low-quality scans, fillable forms that weren’t flattened, and files over the court’s size limit.

California’s formatting requirements come from the California Rules of Court. Rules 2.100 through 2.119 cover document format, including margins, line spacing, and page numbering, and Rule 2.256 requires eFiled PDFs to be text-searchable.

Signatures matter here too. Rule 2.257 allows signature lines on eFiled documents to use “/s/” followed by the signer’s typed name where permitted, so you often don’t need to print a document just to sign it and scan it back in. For documents signed under penalty of perjury, confirm the declarant has signed in a manner the rule allows.

How to avoid it: Separate or combine documents according to the court’s filing requirements, and add electronic bookmarks to exhibits, linking to the first page of each with the exhibit number or letter and a short description. Make sure page numbers run consecutively and match the PDF’s page numbers, and check that scans are legible and meet the court’s resolution requirements (300 dpi is generally recommended). Flatten any fillable forms, remove comments and tracked changes, and confirm that each PDF and the total submission are within the court’s file size limits. If you file through One Legal, your uploads are converted to text-searchable PDFs automatically, but scan quality still matters.

Paralegal tip: Start with a PDF created directly from your word processor whenever you can. Text-based PDFs are cleaner, smaller, and more searchable than scans. For a deeper look at formatting rules, see our guide to California court document formatting.

4. Incorrect court location

Filing into the wrong courthouse is one of the fastest ways to get a filing rejected. Many California counties route certain case types to specific courthouses, and filing anywhere else can mean automatic rejection.

For example, Los Angeles County handles probate cases only at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse and the Michael D. Antonovich Antelope Valley Courthouse. Local rules and requirements also vary from court to court, so a filing that goes through without issue in the court you use every week can be rejected in one you rarely file in.

How to avoid it: Confirm the courthouse location before you submit, and review the court’s local rules when you’re filing somewhere unfamiliar. Around the holidays, plan for court closures and leave enough time to refile if something goes wrong.

Expert tip from Apryl Johnston, Client Success Manager: “Confirm that the location you’ve selected in the workflow matches the address on your documents.”

5. Incorrect case category or type

Selecting the wrong case category or case type is another common reason new filings come back. Each case type has its own procedural requirements, so a mismatch can lead to immediate rejection.

How to avoid it: For a new case, confirm that the case category and case type you select in the workflow match your initiating documents and, for civil cases, the Civil Case Cover Sheet.

Expert tip from Brooke Greene, Client Success Manager: “Review the selection on your Civil Case Coversheet to ensure it matches the case category you selected in the workflow.”

Two more to watch: missing documents and obsolete forms

Missing documents account for another 7% of rejections, and obsolete forms for 5%. Before you submit, use the preview to confirm every required document is uploaded and that the court, county, and case information are accurate. And check that any Judicial Council forms you’re using are the current versions.

Make the check a habit

Most of these issues take seconds to catch and much longer to fix after the fact. The easiest way to avoid them is to make the same quick check part of your pre-filing routine, especially when you’re filing somewhere new or working against a tight deadline.

To make that easier, we put all of these checks on a single page you can print, pin next to your monitor, or share with your team. It’s also a handy reference when you’re training a new paralegal or legal assistant.

Download the eFiling rejection checklist →

Want the full guide? Our eBook, How to avoid eFiling rejections, covers each rejection reason in depth, with examples, screenshots, and more tips from our Client Success team.

Download the eBook →

When to hand it off

For most routine filings, a quick check is all you need, and eFiling on your own works well. But some filings carry more risk: a court you rarely file in, a deadline with no room for a rejection, or a request that involves filing, service, and delivery all at once. And some weeks there simply aren’t enough hours, like when you’re covering for a colleague, juggling several attorneys’ deadlines, or facing a stack of near-identical filings.

That’s where One Legal Concierge comes in. Think of it as an extra set of hands for your team. You tell us what you need and upload your documents, and a dedicated Concierge expert reviews them for completeness, legibility, and court formatting before submission. From there, we place the order in your One Legal account, monitor it through completion, and message you if anything needs your attention.

If your Concierge eFiling is rejected, our team works with you to address the rejection and resubmit at no additional service fee. Concierge starts at $75 per transaction, in addition to standard order fees.

Place a Concierge order →

See how Concierge works →

Frequently asked questions

How can paralegals reduce eFiling rejections?

Build a quick pre-filing check into your routine. Confirm that the case information in the workflow matches your documents, choose the closest matching document type and check the filing fee on the Review screen, separate or combine documents as the court requires, and confirm the courthouse location and case category. For higher-risk filings, a service like One Legal Concierge can review your documents before they’re submitted.

What should I do after an eFiling is rejected?

Read the court’s rejection notice to see what needs to change, correct the documents, and refile. If the notice doesn’t explain the reason, contact the court you filed with. When a deadline is close, refile as soon as possible.

Can someone review my filing before I submit it?

Yes. With One Legal Concierge, a dedicated expert reviews your documents for completeness, legibility, and court formatting before submission, then places and monitors the order for you.

Do local rules differ between California courts?

Yes. Every California court follows statewide rules, but each also has its own local rules. Check them before filing in a court you don’t use often.

What’s the most common reason eFilings get rejected?

Missing or incorrect case information is the most common reason, accounting for 21% of rejections, according to One Legal and California court data. That includes wrong case numbers and party names, AKAs, or DBAs that don’t match the documents.

How often are eFilings rejected in California?

According to One Legal and California court data, 8.5% of all submitted filings are rejected. Most of those rejections come from a handful of avoidable issues, like mismatched case information, the wrong document type, and formatting problems.

How much does One Legal Concierge cost?

Concierge starts at $75 per transaction, in addition to standard order fees. If your Concierge eFiling is rejected, our team works with you to address the rejection and resubmit at no additional service fee.

Concierge specialists are not attorneys and can’t provide legal advice. Filing requirements vary by court, so always check the court’s local rules.

A free, detailed guide on all the basics of eFiling

Learn all the basics about eFiling with this eBook guide. If you have a workflow that needs improving, are new to eFiling, or just want a handy companion guide to share with your colleagues, then this is for you. Download this free eBook now.

The SPARE Act (AB 747) Compliance Checklist: 4 Steps to Take Before January 1, 2027 - One Legal | An InfoTrack Company

Be'Anka Ashaolu — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

The 4-point SPARE Act compliance checklist

California’s SPARE Act (AB 747) takes effect January 1, 2027. To be ready, your firm needs to do four things: apply the new rules to every server, meet the three-attempt diligence standard, document each attempt with a photo and GPS data, and review every proof of service before you file it. This SPARE Act compliance checklist from One Legal walks through each step.

Governor Newsom signed the Service of Process Accountability, Reform and Equity (SPARE) Act on October 10, 2025. It tightens the documentation and diligence rules behind civil service of process to cut down on “sewer service,” where someone falsely claims they completed service.

New to the law? Start with our plain-English guide, What Is the SPARE Act?

1. Who has to follow AB 747’s service rules?

Everyone who serves papers, whether they’re a registered process server or not. AB 747’s diligence and documentation duties attach to the service itself, not to the server’s registration status. The same rules apply whether a registered process server or a friend or family member completes service.

Starting January 1, 2027, county process server registries also become uniformly public statewide. For more on who must register and what’s changing, see Who Must Comply with AB 747?

Confirm every person serving papers for your firm follows the new standards

2. What counts as “reasonable diligence” under AB 747?

Three service attempts, on three different days, at three different times. AB 747 writes this definition into CCP 415.20(b), the rule for substituted service on an individual. Before, what counted as reasonable diligence varied case by case. In consumer debt and unlawful detainer cases, at least one of those attempts must be made at the defendant’s home, if the address is known or can be found with reasonable effort.

Some counties’ local rules currently go beyond the statewide standard. However, the new statute should take precedence, though courts may take time to adjust. For now, working with a process server who knows each county’s rules helps you meet both and avoid service defects.

Confirm your servers make three attempts on separate days and at varied times before substituted service

In consumer debt and unlawful detainer cases, confirm at least one attempt is made at the defendant’s home

Check local rules in every county where you serve

3. What documentation does AB 747 require for each attempt?

A photo with a readable date, time, and GPS stamp. Each completed or attempted service generally needs a photo of the door or entrance, or of the site of service for public locations.

First, the server should take the photo as close as possible to the time of the attempt. If there’s no signal, the server still takes the photo and gives a detailed statement explaining why the GPS data is missing. If taking a photo would compromise the server’s safety, the server can skip it but must give a detailed statement explaining why on the proof of service.

Confirm any missing photo or GPS data is explained in a detailed statement on the proof of service
Confirm exceptions are explained in writing on the return

4. How should you review a proof of service before filing?

Check the form, then the evidence. Make sure your team is using the correct, current Judicial Council form for the case type. New SPARE Act-compliant forms, including revised proofs of service and a new declaration of diligence (POS-012) are expected before the January 1, 2027 effective date. Then confirm the photos, GPS data, and diligence details are complete before anyone files anything.

One Legal’s process servers already capture time-stamped, GPS-tagged photos on service attempts, so your proofs are built for AB 747 from the start.

Switch to the updated Judicial Council proof of service forms once released
Review photos, GPS data, and attempt details on every proof before filing

Why AB 747 compliance matters

Incomplete or noncompliant service records give defendants a clearer path to a motion to vacate or set aside a default judgment. Under AB 747, a defendant who says they weren’t properly served can’t be denied a hearing, and the party that obtained the default must prove service was proper. A complete record of photos, GPS data, and diligence details is the strongest way to meet that burden and avoid a costly do-over, or losing ground on the case itself.

Want a service of process partner already building for AB 747?

One Legal handles eFiling, service of process, and courtesy copy delivery across all 58 California counties and nationwide. Talk to our team

Disclaimer: This checklist is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult counsel about your firm’s specific compliance obligations under AB 747.

SPARE Act compliance checklist FAQs

When does the SPARE Act take effect?

Most provisions of AB 747 take effect January 1, 2027. The bill was signed on October 10, 2025.

How many attempts are required before substituted service in California?

Under AB 747, reasonable diligence for substituted service on an individual means three attempts, on three different days, at three different times, as codified in CCP 415.20(b). In consumer debt and unlawful detainer cases, at least one attempt must be made at the defendant’s home, if it’s known or can be found with reasonable effort.

Does AB 747 require photos of service attempts?

Yes. Each completed or attempted service generally needs a photo of the door, entrance, or site of service with a readable date, time, and GPS stamp. If there’s no signal, the server still takes the photo and explains the missing GPS data. If a photo would compromise the server’s safety, it can be omitted with a detailed written explanation on the proof of service.

Does the SPARE Act apply to people who aren’t registered process servers?

Yes. AB 747’s diligence and documentation duties attach to the service itself, so they apply whether a registered process server or a friend or family member completes service.

What happens if service doesn’t comply with AB 747?

Defendants have a clearer path to a motion to vacate or set aside a default judgment. They can’t be denied a hearing, and the party that obtained the default must prove service was proper.

How can One Legal help with AB 747 compliance?

One Legal’s service of process and order bundling options will include AB 747 quality assurance, and its process serving covers all 58 California counties, as well as nationwide and international serves.

A free guide to a bulletproof process serving workflow

Whether you’re looking to improve your existing process or want to avoid common errors, download this companion guide now and share it with your colleagues. Discover tips and tricks from One Legal’s expert team and see the benefits of more effective process serving today.

The Paralegal's Guide to Same-Day, Error-Free Court Filing - One Legal | An InfoTrack Company

Be'Anka Ashaolu — Wed, 07 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Same-day, error-free court filing comes down to three things: a document that meets the court’s formatting rules before you upload it, a filing envelope that matches the case exactly, and enough buffer before the court’s cutoff to fix a rejection if one comes back.

In California, an e-filed document received by 11:59:59 p.m. on a court day is deemed filed that day under Code of Civil Procedure section 1010.6. But a rejection doesn’t stop the clock. This guide walks through the pre-filing checks, the filing-day workflow, and the fixes that keep a filing from bouncing.

Whether you’re filing a routine motion or racing an ex parte deadline, the habits below apply to every California superior court that accepts e-filing. Where counties differ, we’ve flagged it.

What does “same-day filing” actually mean in California?

It means the court’s system receives your document on the day you need it filed, not that a clerk accepts it that day. Under CCP § 1010.6(b)(3), a document received electronically between 12:00 a.m. and 11:59:59 p.m. on a court day is deemed filed on that court day. Anything received on a weekend or court holiday is deemed filed on the next court day.

Two important caveats:

Receipt isn’t acceptance. The clerk still reviews the filing. If it’s rejected, you generally have to fix and resubmit, and the resubmission gets its own timestamp.

The midnight rule doesn’t override other deadlines. The statute is explicit that e-filed documents must still meet every other filing deadline and requirement. Ex parte applications, hearing-specific papers, and anything with a local “by noon” or “by 10 a.m.” rule follow those earlier times.

Why do eFilings get rejected?

Most rejections are preventable and fall into a handful of buckets: formatting, envelope data, fees, and missing pieces. The most common we see:

1. Not text-searchable. Rule of Court 2.256(b) requires electronic documents to be text-searchable when technologically feasible. Scanned pages without OCR are a frequent bounce.

2. Missing or incorrect exhibit bookmarks. Rule 3.1110(f)(4) requires electronic exhibits to be bookmarked (for filers who aren’t self-represented), each bookmark pointing to the first page of the exhibit with a descriptive title.

3. Pagination and formatting errors. Pages must be numbered consecutively at the bottom using only Arabic numerals, counting from the first page (the number itself may be left off page 1) (Rule 2.109). Each page also needs a footer below the page number, separated by a line, showing the document’s title or an abbreviation in at least 10-point font (Rule 2.110).

4. Wrong case number or case title in the filing envelope, or party names that don’t match the court’s records.

5. Wrong document type or filing code. For example, filing a motion under a generic “Other” code, or picking a code that triggers the wrong fee.

6. Fee problems. An incorrect first-appearance fee, a missing motion fee, or a fee waiver that wasn’t attached.

7. Active fillable fields left on Judicial Council forms. Some courts, such as San Bernardino, won’t accept forms that are still fillable. Flatten them before filing.

8. Missing signature, attorney information, or State Bar number on the first page. Rule 2.111 requires the filer’s name, address, phone, email and State Bar number on page 1.

9. No hearing reserved when the document requires one, or a hearing date that doesn’t match the court’s calendar.

10. Missing attachments. A proposed order, proof of service, or declaration referenced in the moving papers but not included.

How do I prepare a document so it’s accepted the first time?

Run every filing through the same pre-flight check before it goes into an envelope. It takes five minutes and catches the majority of rejections.

PDF is text-searchable (try selecting a line of text; if you can’t, run OCR at 300 dpi or higher)

Pages numbered consecutively from 1; document title in the footer

Font at least 12 point; margins at least 1″ left and ½” right

Every exhibit bookmarked with a descriptive label (e.g., “Exhibit A – Lease Agreement dated 3/1/2025”)

Judicial Council forms flattened; no live fillable fields

Caption page complete: attorney name, State Bar number, firm, address, phone, email, party represented

Signatures in place (electronic signatures per Rule 2.257)

All referenced attachments included: proposed order, declarations, proof of service

Case number and party names match the court’s docket exactly

Hearing date reserved, if the document requires one

What’s the best filing-day workflow for same-day filing?

Work backward from the court’s real deadline, not midnight. A reliable sequence looks like this:

What should I do if my filing is rejected?

Read the rejection reason, fix only what the clerk flagged, and resubmit as quickly as possible. Specifically:

1. Read the notice closely. Clerks usually cite the specific defect: a missing bookmark, a mismatched case number, a fee issue, for example.

2. Fix the document or the envelope, not both at random. If the problem is envelope data (filing code, party, fee), the PDF may be fine as is.

3. Resubmit and note the timing. If a deadline was at stake, keep the original submission confirmation and rejection notice with the file.

4. If the court’s system failed, not your document, Rule of Court 2.259 allows a court to deem a filing made on the date it was first attempted when a technical problem prevented it. Document everything and raise it with the court promptly.

How does electronic service affect my deadlines?

Filing and service run on different clocks. Under CCP § 1010.6, electronic service generally extends any period of notice, or any deadline to respond, by two court days. And a document e-served after 5:00 p.m. — or on a non-court day — is deemed served on the next court day. A filing can be timely at 11:30 p.m. while service of the same document counts as the following day.

Keep a clean record of every e-service: who was served, at what address, and when. A proof of service that matches the court’s timestamp saves an argument later.

What changes when I’m filing in a new county?

More than you’d expect. California’s 58 superior courts share the Rules of Court but set their own local rules, e-filing mandates, accepted document types, and filing codes. Before your first filing in an unfamiliar county, confirm:

Whether e-filing is mandatory, permissive, or unavailable for your case type

Which filing codes the court uses for your document

Local cutoffs for ex parte or time-sensitive papers

Whether the court requires courtesy copies, and in what form

Current filing fees for your case type

How can a filing service help with same-day filing?

A good filing service handles the parts of the process most likely to cause delays — county-specific requirements, filing codes, fees, and status tracking — so the paralegal can focus on the documents themselves. Here’s how One Legal maps to the workflow above:

Pre-submission review. Concierge specialists check documents for completeness, formatting, and applicable court requirements before they’re filed.

Rejection protection. If a Concierge eFiling is rejected, the Concierge team reviews the rejection and coordinates resubmission at no extra charge when appropriate.

One view of every filing. Your case portfolio shows all filings and service orders tied to a case and where each one stands, and eService orders show real-time status updates.

File, serve, and file again. With a File-Serve-File order, One Legal files your documents, completes service, and files the proof of service — closing the loop in one order.

Learn more about How One Legal Works.

Frequently asked questions

What time is the e-filing deadline in California?

Generally 11:59:59 p.m. on a court day. Under CCP § 1010.6(b)(3), an e-filed document received by then is deemed filed that day. Ex parte and other time-sensitive filings may have earlier local deadlines.

Is a document filed when I submit it or when the court accepts it?

It’s deemed filed when the court’s system receives it, provided the clerk accepts it. If the filing is rejected, you’ll typically need to correct and resubmit it, and the new submission carries its own timestamp.

Do e-filed documents need to be text-searchable?

Yes. California Rule of Court 2.256(b) requires electronic documents to be text-searchable when technologically feasible. Scanned documents should be run through OCR before filing.

Do exhibits need bookmarks?

Yes, for represented parties. Rule 3.1110(f)(4) requires each electronic exhibit to be bookmarked to its first page with a descriptive title.

Does electronic service extend my response deadline?

Generally, yes, by two court days under CCP § 1010.6, with some exceptions. Documents e-served after 5:00 p.m. are deemed served on the next court day.

What if the court’s e-filing system goes down on my deadline?

Rule of Court 2.259 lets a court deem a document filed on the date the filer first attempted to submit it if a technical problem prevented filing. Keep records of every attempt and raise it with the court promptly.

This article is for general informational purposes and isn’t legal advice. Rules and local requirements change. Always confirm with the applicable court’s current rules before filing.

A free guide to a bulletproof process serving workflow

How One Legal Works: Filing, eService & Serving - One Legal | An InfoTrack Company

Be'Anka Ashaolu — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Last updated September 2026

A guide for California paralegals and legal staff. One Legal is a single platform for the paperwork side of litigation, including eFiling, physical court filing, Service of Process nationwide, Electronic Service (eService), courtesy copy delivery, Person/Business Locator, Address Research if a serve fails, and Concierge support for filings, service, and other complex legal support requests.

What does One Legal actually do?

Most firms come to One Legal primarily for one of two reasons: they need something filed with a court, or they need to serve someone papers. The platform is built so both of those requests happen inside the same order flow, on the same case record, with the same account team behind them.

eFiling — certified electronic filing in every California Superior Court, plus select Nevada courts; physical filing handled for you where eFiling isn’t available.

Service of Process — nationwide network of professional servers for summons, subpoenas, and other papers, with delivery tracking.
- Notice of Posting — Posting of documents on a door within 48 hours
- Scheduled Stakeouts — Request for service at a specified date/time or time window

eService — secure, trackable electronic delivery to opposing counsel, available even in courts without eFiling.

Address Research — request a deeper address search directly from a failed serve; results in one to two business days, and the fee applies only if a new address is found.

Physical Filing — printing, assembly, and courier delivery for eFiling-exempt documents.

Courtesy Copy Delivery — available for both physically filed and eFiled documents and is also available for federal court filings.
- Sheriff Delivery — delivery of writs, TROs, and other documents requiring Sheriff Civil Process Department action.
- Other Court Delivery — delivery of anything else the court needs, like filing fee checks, exhibit binders, or bench copies.

Concierge — provides hands-on order management, coordinating filing, service, and other One Legal services on your behalf.

Case Portfolio & Reporting — one view of every filing and service order per case, plus downloadable reports by date range or billing code.

How does a typical order move through the platform?

Whether it’s a straightforward eFiling or a multi-defendant service order, the workflow follows the same basic shape:

1. Choose the service. File with the court, order Service of Process (personal service or eService), or bundle services into one transaction.

For bundled File-Serve-File orders, One Legal files the documents, completes service, and files the Proof of Service.
For bundled eFiling + eService orders, One Legal files the documents and completes eService. The customer then files the Proof of Service separately.

2. Start the order. Upload your documents and enter the case details in your One Legal account.

3. Route it, if needed. Hand the order to Concierge for review and hands-on handling, or let it move through as a standard self-service order.

4. Track it. Your case portfolio gives you an overview of all filings and service orders tied to a case and where each one stands. eService orders additionally show real-time status updates in your account.

5. Reconcile. Orders, documents, and invoices for a case are grouped together, visible from the case portfolio for reporting or billing.

What does the Concierge service add?

Concierge is the best choice for orders that you don’t have time to manage yourself, like bulk filings, multi-party service, or anything with enough moving parts that a second set of expert eyes is worth it. A dedicated specialist reviews documents for completeness and court compliance before submission, manages the logistics of high-volume or complex orders, and helps navigate applicable court-specific filing requirements.

Rejection Protection: If a Concierge eFiling is rejected, the Concierge team reviews the rejection, helps address filing-related issues within the scope of the service, and coordinates resubmission at no extra charge when appropriate.

How is eService different from eFiling?

eFiling is when a document is filed electronically with the court. eService is utilized when sending documents to opposing counsel or other parties in the case. One Legal’s eService works as a secure, trackable alternative to emailing large or sensitive case files. It’s available in any state or federal court regardless of whether that court has eFiling in place. It can be ordered on its own or bundled into a subsequent eFiling, and every eService order carries the same real-time status visibility as a filing.

What are my options when a serve comes back as a bad address or non-service?

A failed serve doesn’t have to mean starting over. On eligible orders in a failed status, you have three options directly from the order details page: request Address Research, serve at another address you already have, or submit notes for another attempt at the original address.

Address Research asks One Legal’s team to run a deeper search for a current address. If we find one, we share it directly on your order within one to two business days. The $25 fee applies only if a new address is actually found. There’s no charge if nothing new comes back.

What happens when a court doesn’t support eFiling?

Not every court accepts electronic filings, and some documents are eFiling-exempt even where one does. For those cases, One Legal handles physical filing and Courtesy Copy Delivery, getting documents filed with the court or delivered directly to the appropriate department or courtroom without your team making the trip. The goal is the same either way: one order, one platform, no separate courier or in-person filing service to coordinate.

FAQ

Is One Legal only for California firms?

No. One Legal supports eFiling in every California Superior Court and select Nevada courts. Service of Process is available locally, nationwide, and in more than 90 countries worldwide.

What does Concierge review before a filing goes out?

Concierge specialists review documents for completeness, formatting, and applicable court filing requirements before submission to help reduce avoidable rejections.

How do I track an order once it’s submitted?

Your case portfolio gives you an overview of all filings and service orders tied to a case and where each one stands. eService orders additionally show real-time status updates in your account.

What if my eFiling gets rejected?

dIf an eFiling submitted through Concierge is rejected, the Concierge team helps correct and resubmit it at no additional Concierge service fee. For other questions, support is available by phone or email.

Who can request Address Research?

Attorneys, or staff they supervise, and only when requesting it solely to effectuate service of process. It’s not available on orders submitted by self-represented litigants, and your firm completes a one-time certification before its first request.

See it on your own cases

Now that you’ve seen how One Legal works, the fastest way to understand the workflow is to submit a real filing or service order through it.

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A free guide to a bulletproof process serving workflow

What is the SPARE Act? A Guide for California Paralegals - One Legal | An InfoTrack Company

Be'Anka Ashaolu — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Last updated September 2026

The SPARE Act is California’s Assembly Bill 747. It takes effect January 1, 2027. It changes how you perform and document service of process in California civil cases. Proof of service will need photos, timestamps, and GPS coordinates. Substituted service will require a defined “reasonable diligence” standard: three attempts, on three different days, at three different times. The law applies to anyone serving civil process in California, not just registered process servers. That means most firms have real, immediate operational work to do before the new year.

Here’s what it means for your firm, broken down by the questions legal staff are actually asking.

What is the SPARE Act?

SPARE stands for Service of Process Accountability, Reform and Equity. It’s the popular name for Assembly Bill 747, authored by Assemblymember Ash Kalra and sponsored by the California Low Income Consumer Coalition. Governor Newsom signed AB 747 into law on October 10, 2025. The Secretary of State chaptered it that same day as Chapter 563, Statutes of 2025.

The law targets “sewer service” — the practice of falsely claiming a defendant was served when they never were. Consumer advocates and the courts have flagged this as a long-running due process problem. It shows up most often in debt collection and unlawful detainer cases. A defendant who never received notice can still end up with a default judgment against them.

When does the SPARE Act take effect?

The SPARE Act takes effect January 1, 2027. The Judicial Council is still finalizing forms and implementation guidance. But the underlying requirements are set. Firms have roughly four months to get workflows in order.

What does the SPARE Act actually change?

Three things, in order of impact:

1. A defined “reasonable diligence” standard. For substituted service on individuals, the law now requires three service attempts, on three different days, at three different times. Only after that can you use substituted service. Previously, case law defined “reasonable diligence” loosely, and interpretations varied. This standard applies to substituted service on individuals under CCP 415.20(b). It does not apply to service on corporations or other business entities under CCP 415.20(a), which follows a different framework.

2. New photo, timestamp, and GPS documentation. Every proof of service — for both successful and attempted service — will need a photograph of the service location with a readable stamp showing date, time, and GPS (or equivalent) coordinates. The photo documents the location, not the person you served: a door or entrance for a residence or business, or the site itself for a public place like a sidewalk or parking lot.

3. A public statewide process server registry. Starting January 1, 2027, counties must make their process server registries publicly available statewide. This standardizes a system that previously varied by county.

Who does the SPARE Act apply to?

The SPARE Act applies to almost anyone serving civil process in California, not just registered process servers. The diligence and documentation requirements attach to the service itself and the proof of service, no matter who performs it. That includes:

Registered process servers
Unregistered individuals (friends, family, employees) who occasionally serve papers
Sheriffs and marshals
Licensed private investigators
Out-of-state process servers serving California defendants

The law does not change California’s existing registration thresholds. Business & Professions Code § 22350 still governs those — generally 10+ paid services a year for individuals. It also doesn’t create special rules for notaries or private investigators beyond what already existed.

Does the SPARE Act apply to unlawful detainer cases?

Yes, with some UD-specific additions layered on top of the general civil rules:

New diligence requirements for posting in unlawful detainer actions
A requirement that UD complaints state the date, time, location, and method used to serve the termination notice (under revised CCP 1166(a)(5))

The new diligence requirements govern service of the summons and complaint. The termination notice itself gets its own, separate disclosure requirement.

Does the SPARE Act add rules for consumer debt cases?

Yes. Under CCP 415.20(b)(3), you must make at least one substituted service attempt in qualifying consumer debt matters at the defendant’s dwelling or usual place of abode — if you know that address or can determine it with reasonable effort. This requirement applies specifically to consumer debt actions, not to civil cases broadly.

What does the SPARE Act not change?

It’s easy to over-read a law this significant, so let’s be precise about the boundaries:

Criminal cases — the law is limited to civil service of process.
Subpoenas — not covered.
Alternative service methods — service on opposing counsel, court-ordered alternative service, and service by publication are untouched.
Drop service — still legal where California courts recognize it; it now carries the same documentation requirements as any other service.
Business entity service — the core framework for serving corporations, LLCs, and partnerships stays the same, though the new documentation rules still apply when service happens under a covered method.
Virtual businesses — entities must still keep a registered agent with a California street address on file with the Secretary of State; service to that address is unaffected.
Filings after the initial summons and complaint — once a defendant has appeared and litigation is underway, existing rules for subsequent filings stay the same.

What should my firm be doing now to prepare for the SPARE Act?

The effective date is a few months out, but the operational lift is real. Priorities, in order:

Audit your service-of-process vendors now. Ask directly: can they capture photo, timestamp, and GPS data in a way that satisfies the “readable stamp” requirement? If the answer is unclear, have that conversation this month, not in December.
Review documentation and storage workflows. You’ll need to retain photos and location data, then attach them to the proof of service filing itself. Figure out where that lives before January.
Watch for revised Judicial Council forms. Civil (POS-010), unlawful detainer, family law (e.g., FL-115), and probate forms will likely change in the final months before the effective date. Build in time to adjust your filing workflows once they land.
Train staff who aren’t registered process servers. Anyone in the office who occasionally hand-delivers papers is still on the hook for the new documentation standard. Make time for training any internal staff who serve directly.
Talk to your out-of-state servers now to confirm they understand California’s new requirements, rather than discovering a gap after the law takes effect.

How One Legal is preparing for the SPARE Act

One Legal’s process serving network already handle this kind of chain-of-custody documentation, and our team is tracking the Judicial Council form revisions as they’re finalized. See how One Legal handles service of process today, or request a demo to talk through what SPARE Act readiness looks like for your firm.

Go deeper on a specific requirement

This guide covers the fundamentals. For a closer look at any one piece, One Legal’s team has published a four-part series digging into the details:

AB 747 Basics: Scope, Applicability, and What the SPARE Act Changes — a deeper FAQ on what case types and service methods are covered, and what’s explicitly carved out.
AB 747 Documentation Requirements: Photos, GPS Coordinates, and Proofs of Service — what exactly gets photographed, what happens with no GPS signal, and the safety exception for skipping a photo.
AB 747 and Reasonable Diligence: Service Attempts and Substituted Service — the three-attempt standard explained in full, plus how it applies (and doesn’t) to drop service, sheriffs, and commercial property.
Who Must Comply with AB 747? Registration Requirements, New Forms, and Implementation — the public registry, Judicial Council form changes, and how the law applies to unregistered servers and out-of-state process servers.

Sources: AB 747 bill text, California Legislative Information; One Legal’s four-part AB 747 explainer series.

This article is for general informational purposes and isn’t legal advice. Confirm current bill status, effective dates, and Judicial Council form releases before relying on this guide for compliance decisions.

A free guide to a bulletproof process serving workflow

Who Must Comply with AB 747? Registration Requirements, New Forms, and Other Implementation Questions - One Legal | An InfoTrack Company

Miraj Jallie — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Since the passage of California’s SPARE Act (AB 747), One Legal has received hundreds of questions from legal professionals seeking to understand how the law will impact service of process beginning January 1, 2027.

To help answer those questions, we compiled some of the most common inquiries from our webinars, customer conversations, and industry discussions. This blog article is part of a four-part series that provides practical guidance on the SPARE Act’s requirements and what legal professionals should be doing now to prepare.

In this final installment, we focus on who must comply with AB 747, what the law means for registered and unregistered process servers, and what legal professionals should know about implementation, forms, and registration requirements.

Does AB 747 apply only to registered process servers?

No.

The diligence and documentation requirements established by AB 747 apply regardless of whether the individual performing service is a registered process server.

The law’s requirements attach to the service itself and the proof of service, not solely to the status of the person performing the service.

As a result, many of the law’s new requirements apply broadly whenever service of process is completed under the covered statutes.

Does AB 747 apply to unregistered servers, such as friends or family members?

Yes.

The law’s diligence and documentation requirements apply regardless of whether the person serving documents is a registered process server.

If service is performed under a method covered by AB 747, the associated documentation and proof-of-service requirements generally apply.

Does AB 747 require all process servers to register?

No.

AB 747 does not change California’s existing process server registration thresholds.

Under Business and Professions Code section 22350, individuals generally must register as process servers if they serve process for compensation more than ten times during a calendar year. Corporations and partnerships deriving compensation from service of process are generally required to register regardless of volume.

AB 747 does not modify these registration requirements.

How does AB 747 affect private investigators?

The law does not change existing registration exemptions for licensed private investigators.

Under current law, licensed private investigators and their employees remain exempt from process server registration requirements. However, the diligence and documentation requirements established by AB 747 still apply when service is performed under the covered statutes.

How does AB 747 affect notaries?

AB 747 does not create special registration requirements for notaries public.

Whether a notary must register as a process server depends on the same registration standards that apply to anyone else performing service of process. Holding a notary commission does not independently trigger or eliminate registration requirements.

What is changing with the public process server registry?

Beginning January 1, 2027, county process server registries must be publicly available.

Prior to AB 747, access to these registries varied by county. The SPARE Act standardizes public access statewide.

Depending on the county, publicly available registry information may include:

Registration numbers

Business addresses

Bond information

Employer information

Other identifying registration records

The Legislature’s stated goal is to increase accountability and transparency within the process serving industry.

Are there privacy concerns regarding the public registry?

Privacy concerns have been raised regarding the public availability of process server information.

The registry may contain identifying information associated with a process server’s registration, including address and business information.

For individuals who qualify, California’s Safe at Home program may provide address confidentiality protections. Eligibility requirements and program details are established separately under California law and are not created by AB 747.

Will out-of-state process servers need to comply with AB 747?

Yes.

When serving California process, out-of-state process servers will need to comply with California’s service requirements.

As AB 747 takes effect, legal professionals coordinating service outside California may wish to confirm that their service providers understand and can comply with the new documentation and proof-of-service standards.

Will AB 747 affect service of process pricing?

AB 747 introduces additional documentation requirements and operational considerations for service providers.

However, pricing decisions remain specific to each provider and their individual service model.

Legal professionals may wish to discuss compliance readiness and documentation capabilities with their service providers as implementation approaches.

Are new Judicial Council forms being created?

Yes.

Several new and revised Judicial Council forms are being developed to support implementation of AB 747.

These updates include revisions affecting civil matters, unlawful detainer proceedings, family law matters, probate proceedings, and other case types.

Among the forms currently under review are revisions to proof-of-service forms and new declarations designed to capture the additional diligence and documentation required by the SPARE Act.

Are Judicial Council forms mandatory?

Yes.

AB 747 does not change the longstanding requirement that proofs of service be completed using Judicial Council-approved forms where required.

What the law changes is the information that must be included in those forms and the supporting documentation that accompanies them.

As revised forms are finalized, legal professionals should expect proofs of service to include significantly more detail than many current versions.

Are there county-specific AB 747 forms?

No.

AB 747 does not create county-specific forms.

The forms being developed in response to the SPARE Act are statewide Judicial Council forms intended for use throughout California.

Individual courts may continue to require local forms or local filing documents unrelated to AB 747, but the service-of-process requirements established by the statute apply statewide.

Does AB 747 apply to family law matters?

Yes, but family law proceedings use their own proof-of-service forms.

For example, family law cases commonly rely on forms such as FL-115 for service of summons and petition documents.

AB 747’s photo, date, time, and GPS requirements are expected to be incorporated through revisions to the family law forms rather than through the civil POS-010 proof-of-service form.

What should legal professionals be doing now?

Although AB 747 does not take effect until January 1, 2027, implementation planning should already be underway.

Legal professionals may wish to consider:

Whether existing service providers are prepared for compliance

How documentation will be reviewed and retained

Whether internal procedures should be updated

How revised Judicial Council forms may affect filing workflows

What training may be necessary for staff and vendors

The law’s operational impact will extend beyond process servers and may affect litigation support, docketing, filing, and case management workflows as well.

Final thoughts

AB 747 introduces new diligence, documentation, and transparency requirements that will affect many aspects of service of process in California.

While some implementation details continue to develop through revised Judicial Council forms and related guidance, the law’s direction is clear: service of process will become increasingly documentation-driven and standardized beginning in 2027.

Understanding who must comply, what documentation will be required, and how implementation may affect existing workflows can help legal professionals prepare well before the law takes effect.

If you would like to learn more about the SPARE Act, watch One Legal’s on-demand webinar and explore Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 of our AB 747 blog series.

A free guide to a bulletproof process serving workflow

AB 747 and Reasonable Diligence: What Legal Professionals Need to Know About Service Attempts and Substituted Service - One Legal | An InfoTrack Company

Miraj Jallie — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

To help answer those questions, we compiled some of the most common inquiries from our webinars, customer conversations, and industry discussions. This blog is part of a four-part series designed to provide practical guidance on the SPARE Act’s requirements and what legal professionals should be doing now to prepare.

In this installment, we focus on another significant aspect of the SPARE Act: reasonable diligence, substituted service, and the new standards surrounding service attempts.

How does AB 747 change substituted service?

AB 747 makes significant changes to substituted service by creating a defined reasonable diligence standard and requiring additional documentation of service attempts.

Under the new law, service attempts must be documented and reflected in the proof of service. In addition, certain matters may require service attempts at specific locations before substituted service can be used.

These changes are intended to create more consistent standards for determining when substituted service is appropriate.

What is the new reasonable diligence standard?

One of the most notable changes in AB 747 is that the law now defines reasonable diligence for purposes of substituted service.

Generally, reasonable diligence will require:

Three service attempts

On three different days

At three different times

This standard applies before substituted service may be used in situations where reasonable diligence is required.

In addition to meeting these requirements, each attempt must be documented in accordance with the law’s new evidence and proof of service requirements.

Does every type of substituted service require the three-attempt standard?

No.

The three-attempt reasonable diligence requirement is primarily associated with substituted service on individuals under CCP 415.20(b).

Service on corporations and other business entities under CCP 415.20(a) follows a different framework and does not require the same three-attempt showing before substituted service can be completed.

Legal professionals should carefully distinguish between service on individuals and service on entities when evaluating compliance requirements.

Are there additional requirements for consumer debt cases?

Yes.

AB 747 imposes an additional requirement in certain consumer debt actions.

Under CCP 415.20(b)(3), at least one substituted service attempt must be made at the defendant’s dwelling or usual place of abode “…provided that the dwelling place or usual place of abode is known or could be determined with reasonable effort” before substituted service may be completed.

This requirement applies specifically to qualifying consumer debt matters and does not apply broadly to all civil actions.

How does AB 747 affect service on business entities?

AB 747 does not fundamentally change the existing framework for serving corporations, partnerships, LLCs, or other business entities.

Service on business entities generally continues to be directed to the appropriate registered agent or authorized representative.

However, the new documentation requirements—including photographs, date and time information, and GPS coordinates—still apply when service is performed under the methods covered by the statute.

Are there different rules for commercial properties?

For the most part, AB 747 treats commercial and residential service similarly.

The law’s documentation requirements apply regardless of whether service occurs at a residence or business.

One notable exception involves unlawful detainer matters. Commercial unlawful detainer actions are exempt from certain dwelling-attempt requirements that may apply in residential unlawful detainer cases.

How does AB 747 affect unlawful detainer posting?

AB 747 introduces new diligence requirements that affect posting in unlawful detainer actions.

As with other areas of the law, the goal is to create a more consistent and documented record of service efforts before alternative methods of service are used.

The law also requires unlawful detainer complaints to include additional information regarding the service of termination notices, including the date, time, location, and method of service.

What happens when a business operates virtually?

AB 747 does not change the rules for serving virtual businesses.

California entities must continue to maintain an agent for service of process with a California street address on file with the Secretary of State.

Service attempts may still be made at the address of record, even when the business operates through a virtual office, coworking space, or similar arrangement.

The primary impact of AB 747 is that service attempts at those locations will now require additional documentation.

Does AB 747 change drop service?

No.

California courts have long recognized drop service as a form of service when a subject refuses to physically accept documents after being properly identified.

AB 747 does not change the legal validity of drop service.

However, because drop service is considered service, the new documentation requirements apply. This includes photographs, date and time information, GPS coordinates, and the information required by the revised proof-of-service forms.

Process servers should also continue to document the circumstances that justified the use of drop service.

What if service occurs somewhere other than a home or workplace?

Service is not limited to residences and business locations.

If personal service is successfully completed at another location, service may still be valid.

However, the documentation requirements established by AB 747 continue to apply. The location of service must still be documented through the required photographs and related information, even if service occurs somewhere other than a home or workplace.

Does AB 747 affect sheriff service?

Yes.

AB 747 applies to sheriffs and marshals in the same manner it applies to other service providers with respect to diligence and documentation requirements.

Photographs, date and time information, GPS coordinates, and other proof of service requirements generally apply when sheriffs serve summonses and complaints through personal service, substituted service, or unlawful detainer posting.

Existing exemptions regarding process server registration remain unchanged. Sheriffs and marshals are not required to register as process servers, and existing proof-of-service certification procedures remain available to them.

Why do these changes matter?

AB 747 places greater emphasis on creating a clear and defensible record of service.

Whether service is completed through personal service, substituted service, unlawful detainer posting, or drop service, courts and litigants will have access to more information regarding the efforts made to locate and serve a defendant.

As a result, legal professionals may want to review existing service workflows, vendor relationships, and proof-of-service review procedures before the law takes effect.

Final thoughts

AB 747’s new reasonable diligence standards represent a significant shift in how service attempts and substituted service will be documented in California civil litigation.

While many of the underlying service methods remain unchanged, the level of documentation required to support those methods is increasing. Understanding these requirements now can help legal professionals prepare their processes well before January 1, 2027.

In the final article of this series, we will examine who must comply with AB 747, how the law affects registered and unregistered process servers, and what legal professionals should know about new Judicial Council forms and implementation requirements.

If you would like to learn more about the SPARE Act, watch One Legal’s on-demand webinar or explore Part 1, Part 2, and Part 4 of our AB 747 blog series.

A free guide to a bulletproof process serving workflow

AB 747 Documentation Requirements: Photos, GPS Coordinates, and Proofs of Service - One Legal | An InfoTrack Company

Miraj Jallie — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

In this installment, we focus on one of the most talked-about aspects of the SPARE Act: the new documentation requirements for service of process, including photographs, GPS coordinates, and proofs of service.

What does AB 747 require process servers to document?

Beginning January 1, 2027, AB 747 will require additional documentation to accompany service attempts and completed service in covered matters.

Under the new law, proofs of service will generally need to include:

One or more photographs of each effected or attempted service

Date and time information

GPS coordinates or equivalent location data

Additional information regarding service attempts and diligence efforts

These requirements are intended to provide greater transparency and accountability in the service process.

What does the process server need to photograph?

The photo requirement is focused on documenting the location of service, not the person being served.

The law generally requires a photograph of the site where service occurred or was attempted.

For service at a residence, the photograph should capture the door or entrance to the dwelling if the door itself is not reasonably accessible.

For service at a business, the photograph should capture the door or entrance to the office or business location if the door itself is not reasonably accessible.

Importantly, the statute does not require process servers to photograph the individual being served.

Are photographs required for unsuccessful service attempts?

Yes.

The photo requirement applies to both effected service and attempted service.

This means a process server must generally document each service attempt, not just successful service. The purpose is to create a record demonstrating that the attempt occurred at the claimed location and time.

Does the photograph need to include the person accepting service?

No.

The law focuses on documenting the location where service occurred, not the identity of the individual accepting documents.

Whether service is made directly on a defendant, a receptionist, an authorized agent, or another appropriate recipient, the photograph requirement remains tied to the location itself.

What if service occurs somewhere other than a home or business?

The photo requirement still applies.

However, when service occurs in a public place or another location that is neither a residence nor a business, the entranceway requirement does not apply.

In those situations, the process server would generally photograph the location (“…the site of each effected or attempted service…”) where service occurred. Examples may include:

A sidewalk

A parking lot

A park

A beach

Another public location

The photograph is intended to document the site of service and connect it to a specific time and place.

What are GPS coordinates, and why are they required?

The law refers to “GPS or equivalent coordinates,” which generally means location data identifying where a service attempt occurred.

Most modern smartphones automatically capture location information when photographs are taken. This data is commonly stored as part of the photo’s metadata.

Under AB 747, location information becomes part of the broader effort to verify where service, or attempts at service, occurred and support the accuracy of the proof of service.

Does the law require both photographs and GPS coordinates?

Yes.

The statute contemplates photographs that include date, time, and GPS information. These elements work together to document when and where service occurred.

What does the statute mean by a “readable stamp”?

The law requires photographs to contain a “readable stamp” that automatically records the date, time, and GPS coordinates (or equivalent location information).

Additional guidance may be provided before implementation, but many legal professionals expect this requirement to mean that the information must be visible on or associated with the photograph itself rather than existing solely in the photo’s underlying metadata.

As revised Judicial Council forms and implementation guidance continue to develop, additional clarification may become available.

Is photo metadata alone enough to satisfy the requirement?

That remains an open question.

The statute clearly requires photographs with a readable date, time, and GPS stamp, but it does not expressly address whether embedded metadata alone would satisfy the requirement.

This is one area where additional Judicial Council guidance may be helpful before the law takes effect.

Will the date and time need to appear on the photograph?

Possibly.

Because the statute references a readable stamp containing this information, many practitioners are preparing for workflows that visibly associate the date, time, and GPS information with each photograph.

Future guidance may provide additional clarity regarding implementation.

What happens if there is no cell signal or GPS signal?

The law distinguishes between two different situations: the absence of a photograph and the absence of GPS information.

If GPS, mobile, or equivalent signal is unavailable at the time of service, the photograph must still generally be taken. However, the process server must provide a detailed written explanation describing why the location information could not be captured.

Lack of signal is not, by itself, a reason to omit the photograph.

When can a photograph be omitted?

The statute provides a safety exception.

If, in the reasonable judgment of the process server, taking a photograph would compromise the server’s safety, a photograph may be omitted. In that circumstance, the process server must provide a detailed written statement explaining the safety concern.

The law does not provide an exhaustive list of qualifying situations, and courts will likely evaluate these circumstances on a case-by-case basis.

Are body cameras required under AB 747?

No.

AB 747 does not require or specifically address body camera usage.

The law focuses on photographs, date and time information, GPS coordinates, and related proof-of-service documentation.

How do process servers capture this information?

Most smartphones already have the capability to capture photographs, location data, and timestamps.

Many process-serving professionals also use dedicated applications designed to streamline documentation, workflow management, and compliance requirements. One Legal provides a mobile app for our process servers.

Will photographs need to be filed with the court?

Yes.

AB 747 provides that the proof of service must include the photographs documenting the service attempt or completed service.

The proposed revisions to Judicial Council proof of service forms likewise contemplate attaching photographs as part of the filing rather than retaining them separately for future challenges.

As implementation progresses, additional guidance regarding filing procedures may become available.

What should legal professionals be doing now?

Although the new requirements do not take effect until January 1, 2027, firms may benefit from reviewing their current service of process workflows now.

Key considerations include:

How service documentation is collected

Whether existing vendors can meet the new requirements

How photographs and supporting evidence will be stored

How proofs of service will be reviewed before filing

For many firms, AB 747 will require operational adjustments long before the effective date arrives.

Final thoughts

AB 747’s documentation requirements represent one of the most significant procedural changes included in the SPARE Act. By requiring photographs, location data, and additional supporting information, the law seeks to create more transparent and defensible service records.

While some implementation details are still being clarified, legal professionals should begin familiarizing themselves with these requirements now so they can evaluate workflows, vendors, and internal processes well ahead of 2027.

In our next article, we will examine another major component of the SPARE Act: the new reasonable diligence standard, substituted service requirements, and what legal professionals should know about service attempts under AB 747.

If you would like to learn more about the SPARE Act, watch One Legal’s on-demand webinar, and read Part 1, Part 3, and Part 4 of our AB 747 blog series.

A free guide to a bulletproof process serving workflow

AB 747 Explained: What California's SPARE Act Means for Service of Process

Miraj Jallie — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

In this first installment, we focus on the fundamentals: what AB 747 applies to, what it changes, and where its requirements begin and end.

What is the purpose of AB 747?

The stated purpose of AB 747 is to address “sewer service,” the practice of falsely claiming that service was completed when it was not. According to the bill, the law is intended to increase accountability and transparency in service of process by creating more consistent documentation and diligence requirements.

The legislation primarily affects how service of process is performed and documented in California civil cases.

When does AB 747 take effect?

The law takes effect on January 1, 2027.

While implementation guidance and revised Judicial Council forms are still being finalized, legal professionals should begin familiarizing themselves with the new requirements now, particularly those related to diligence standards and documentation.

What types of cases does AB 747 apply to?

AB 747 applies to civil cases served on or after January 1, 2027.

The law amends provisions within the California Code of Civil Procedure and is specifically focused on civil service of process requirements. It does not apply to criminal matters.

Does AB 747 affect criminal cases?

No.

The law applies only to civil service of process. The bill amends sections of the California Code of Civil Procedure (and one change to the Business & Professions Code) and repeatedly limits its scope to civil matters.

Does AB 747 apply to unlawful detainer matters?

Yes, although some provisions apply broadly to all civil cases, others are specific to unlawful detainer actions.

The following changes apply generally across civil cases:

The public register of process servers
The new definition of reasonable diligence
Photo, date, time, and GPS documentation requirements
Expanded remedies relating to improper service and default judgments

The following provisions are specific to unlawful detainer matters:

New diligence requirements related to posting
A requirement that unlawful detainer complaints state the date, time, location, and method used to serve the termination notice

Does AB 747 apply only to service of summons and complaints?

Generally, yes.

The law’s diligence requirements focus on service of the summons and complaint. It does not change the rules governing routine service of filings after parties have appeared in a case.

Once a defendant has been properly brought into the action and litigation is underway, existing service rules for subsequent filings remain unchanged.

Does AB 747 affect termination notices or three-day notices?

The new diligence requirements apply to service of summonses and complaints, not termination notices.

However, the law does create a new unlawful detainer requirement. Under revised CCP 1166(a)(5), an unlawful detainer complaint must state the method used to serve the termination notice, along with the date, time, and location of that service.

Does AB 747 change service rules for government employees?

No special rules were created for government employees.

When serving a government employee in an official capacity, the same diligence and documentation requirements generally apply as they would for any other authorized representative being served at an official office or workplace.

Does AB 747 change substituted service requirements?

Yes.

One of the most significant changes in the law involves substituted service. AB 747 creates a defined reasonable diligence standard, requires documentation of service attempts, and introduces additional requirements in certain consumer debt matters.

Because these changes are substantial, we will cover them in detail in the next article in this series.

Does AB 747 affect service by email or other alternative methods?

No.

The SPARE Act does not modify California’s existing rules governing alternative service.

The law leaves intact provisions relating to:

Service on opposing counsel

Court-ordered alternative service

Service by publication

Alternative service methods authorized under existing California law

AB 747 is primarily focused on personal service, substituted service, and posting requirements in unlawful detainer matters.

Does AB 747 apply to subpoenas?

No.

The law applies to service of summonses and complaints and does not change existing rules governing subpoena service.

Does AB 747 apply when serving business entities?

The law generally treats service at commercial properties and residential properties similarly. The documentation requirements, public registry provisions, and other major changes apply regardless of whether service occurs at a residence or business.

However, there are important distinctions when serving business entities.

For example, substituted service on corporations and other business entities under CCP 415.20(a) did not change, and does not require the same three-attempt diligence showing that applies to substituted service on individuals under CCP 415.20(b).

Similarly, the consumer debt requirement that at least one service attempt be made at a defendant’s dwelling applies only to individuals and does not apply to service on businesses.

What about virtual businesses?

AB 747 does not change the existing framework for serving virtual businesses.

California entities must maintain a designated agent for service of process with a California street address on file with the Secretary of State. Service is generally directed to that registered address, even if it is a virtual office, coworking space, or commercial mail-receiving agency.

The SPARE Act primarily changes how service attempts are documented. It does not alter the existing statutory framework for serving business entities or seeking alternative service when traditional methods prove unsuccessful.

Final thoughts

AB 747 represents one of the most significant changes to California service of process requirements in recent years. While implementation details will continue to develop through Judicial Council forms and guidance, understanding the law now can help legal professionals avoid surprises later.

In our next article, we will take a closer look at one of the most discussed aspects of the SPARE Act: the new photo, GPS, and documentation requirements that will accompany proofs of service beginning in 2027.

If you would like to learn more about the SPARE Act, watch One Legal’s on-demand webinar and explore Part 2, Part 3, and Part 4 of our AB 747 blog series.

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California Court Filing & Service Rule Changes: County Tracker - One Legal | An InfoTrack Company

Be'Anka Ashaolu — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Accurate as of September 2026

Here’s what’s changing July-September 2026 in the California courts you file in most: filing procedures, service-of-process rules, and clerk’s-office hours across roughly 20 counties. Every entry below is dated and links back to the court’s own notice, order, or local rules page. Check the source before you rely on it, since court notices can be revised after they’re posted.

If a county isn’t listed, we didn’t find a verified change this quarter. For California’s statewide service-of-process reform, see our SPARE Act Guide for Paralegals.

Riverside County

Civil filing location reassignments, effective August 1, 2026. Riverside Superior Court rebalanced where civil cases must be filed: unlimited civil cases from Lake Elsinore, Hemet, Winchester, Homeland, Wildomar, and Murrieta now go to the Historic Courthouse in Riverside; limited civil, small claims, and unlawful detainer cases from Lake Elsinore and Wildomar move to the Corona Courthouse; small claims and unlawful detainer cases previously filed at Banning Justice Center move to Moreno Valley Courthouse. Filers should confirm the correct location before submitting. Learn more →

San Bernardino County

FileSubmit discontinued for Family Law cases, announced July 7, 2026. San Bernardino Superior Court is phasing out FileSubmit — its electronic document/payment submission alternative to fax filing — for family law matters; eFile becomes the primary electronic method, with in-person, drop box, or mail as backups. Learn more →

Santa Clara County

Complex Civil Division judicial reassignment, effective August 20, 2026. Judge Peterson has been assigned to the Complex Civil Division; all Department 19 complex cases are reassigned to Judge Peterson in Department 8 at the Downtown Superior Court. Learn more →

Santa Clara’s Local Rules of Court and Local Forms were also updated effective July 1, 2026; the court’s notice doesn’t itemize which specific rules changed, so filers should review the current local rules directly for anything affecting their case type.

Sacramento County

Civil fee schedule updated, per notice posted August 10, 2026. Sacramento Superior Court added several fees to align its civil fee schedule with the Judicial Council’s statewide schedule, including a $75 small-claims-appeal writ petition fee, $870 joint dissolution/legal separation petition fee, $435 joint summary dissolution petition fee, $25 automated-traffic-enforcement appeal fee, and $100 tribal court order recognition application fee. The court states these are additions to match the state schedule, not new obligations. Learn more →

San Francisco County

Proposed local rule changes — not yet adopted. San Francisco Superior Court is taking public comment on proposed changes to its Local Rules of Court, comment period September 16 through October 31, 2026. If adopted, the changes would take effect January 1, 2027. Learn more →

No other verified eFiling, filing-fee, service-of-process, or judicial-assignment change dated between July 1 and September 30, 2026 was found for San Francisco County. (San Francisco clerks’ offices are also set to close to the public at 12:30 p.m. daily starting October 19, 2026 — outside this quarter, so watch for it in the next update.)

Kern County

Proposed local rule amendment — not yet adopted. Kern County Superior Court proposed moving probate document filing deadlines from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. the day before hearings, among other local rule changes proposed September 4, 2026. Public comment runs through October 28, 2026; if adopted, the proposed effective date is January 1, 2027. Learn more →

Ventura County

New eDelivery requirement for family law ex parte filings, effective July 1, 2026. Family law non-restraining-order ex parte filings must now be submitted through the court’s eDelivery system rather than traditional methods. Learn more →

San Joaquin County

Temporary reduced clerk’s office hours, continuing through this quarter. As the court rolls out a new case management system, public counter hours at Stockton, Lodi, Manteca, and the Juvenile Justice Center are cut: 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. (August 17–September 4), then back to 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. (September 7–October 30). Courtrooms, drop boxes, and eFiling remain open throughout. Learn more →

New local rules also take effect July 1, 2026 as part of the court’s standard semi-annual rule cycle; the specific rule changes aren’t detailed in the court’s notice.

Sonoma County

Courthouse relocation, beginning July 20, 2026. The court is relocating to its new courthouse at 625 Administration Drive, Santa Rosa, in phases over three consecutive weekends. Filers and process servers should confirm which building handles their case type before appearing in person. Learn more →

Clerk’s office hours extended, effective August 10, 2026. Public counter hours at all Sonoma court locations extended by 30 minutes, now 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Monday–Friday across all divisions. Learn more →

Local rule amendments, effective July 1, 2026. Probate order-filing now requires electronic PDF filing of proposed orders plus a separately emailed editable version to a department-specific address; the probate office address updated to 3055 Cleveland Avenue.

Solano County

Local forms renumbered, effective July 1, 2026. Several local forms were retired in favor of renumbered versions: Forms 910/920 → 3014-CV/3015-CV (extension requests), Forms 7000/7090 → 3703-SC/3705-SC (small claims), Form 4020/SCLF 1940 → 1020-AD/1030-AD, Form 3500 → 7014-PR (investigator fees). Filers using the old form numbers after July 1, 2026 should switch to the new numbering. Learn more →

Marin County

Still worth noting: Administrative Order 26-01, effective February 23, 2026. For non-criminal existing cases, every document requiring its own file stamp and docket entry (motions, declarations, notices, oppositions) must be uploaded as its own standalone PDF rather than bundled. Case-initiating documents and grouped exhibits remain exempt. Learn more →

The One Legal Blog

The 5 most common eFiling rejection reasons in California - One Legal | An InfoTrack Company

What are the 5 most common reasons California eFilings get rejected?

1. Missing or incorrect case information

2. Incorrect filing code or document type

3. Document formatting issues

4. Incorrect court location

5. Incorrect case category or type

Two more to watch: missing documents and obsolete forms

Make the check a habit

When to hand it off

Frequently asked questions

A free, detailed guide on all the basics of eFiling

The SPARE Act (AB 747) Compliance Checklist: 4 Steps to Take Before January 1, 2027 - One Legal | An InfoTrack Company

The 4-point SPARE Act compliance checklist

1. Who has to follow AB 747’s service rules?

2. What counts as “reasonable diligence” under AB 747?

3. What documentation does AB 747 require for each attempt?

4. How should you review a proof of service before filing?

Why AB 747 compliance matters

Read more about AB 747

Want a service of process partner already building for AB 747?

SPARE Act compliance checklist FAQs

When does the SPARE Act take effect?

How many attempts are required before substituted service in California?

Does AB 747 require photos of service attempts?

Does the SPARE Act apply to people who aren’t registered process servers?

What happens if service doesn’t comply with AB 747?

How can One Legal help with AB 747 compliance?

A free guide to a bulletproof process serving workflow

The Paralegal's Guide to Same-Day, Error-Free Court Filing - One Legal | An InfoTrack Company

What does “same-day filing” actually mean in California?

Why do eFilings get rejected?

How do I prepare a document so it’s accepted the first time?

What’s the best filing-day workflow for same-day filing?

What should I do if my filing is rejected?

How does electronic service affect my deadlines?

What changes when I’m filing in a new county?

How can a filing service help with same-day filing?

Frequently asked questions

What time is the e-filing deadline in California?

Is a document filed when I submit it or when the court accepts it?

Do e-filed documents need to be text-searchable?

Do exhibits need bookmarks?

Does electronic service extend my response deadline?

What if the court’s e-filing system goes down on my deadline?

A free guide to a bulletproof process serving workflow

How One Legal Works: Filing, eService & Serving - One Legal | An InfoTrack Company

What does One Legal actually do?

How does a typical order move through the platform?

What does the Concierge service add?

How is eService different from eFiling?

What are my options when a serve comes back as a bad address or non-service?

What happens when a court doesn’t support eFiling?

FAQ

Is One Legal only for California firms?

What does Concierge review before a filing goes out?

How do I track an order once it’s submitted?

What if my eFiling gets rejected?

Who can request Address Research?

See it on your own cases

A free guide to a bulletproof process serving workflow

What is the SPARE Act? A Guide for California Paralegals - One Legal | An InfoTrack Company

What is the SPARE Act?

When does the SPARE Act take effect?

What does the SPARE Act actually change?

Who does the SPARE Act apply to?

Does the SPARE Act apply to unlawful detainer cases?

Does the SPARE Act add rules for consumer debt cases?

What does the SPARE Act not change?

What should my firm be doing now to prepare for the SPARE Act?

How One Legal is preparing for the SPARE Act

Go deeper on a specific requirement

A free guide to a bulletproof process serving workflow

Who Must Comply with AB 747? Registration Requirements, New Forms, and Other Implementation Questions - One Legal | An InfoTrack Company

Does AB 747 apply only to registered process servers?

Does AB 747 apply to unregistered servers, such as friends or family members?

Does AB 747 require all process servers to register?

How does AB 747 affect private investigators?

How does AB 747 affect notaries?