Work out your
service deadlines.
Enter one date you already know. The calculator applies the California rules listed below and shows the dates that follow from it.
Enter a date to see the deadlines that follow from it.
Calendar days, not adjusted for weekends or court holidays. Your case type, a court order or local rules can change these dates. This is a planning aid, not legal advice.
The rules it uses.
- Cal. Rules of Court, rule 3.110(b)
- In many civil cases, every named defendant must be served, and the proofs of service filed, within 60 days after the complaint is filed.
- Code Civ. Proc. § 415.10
- Personal service is complete when the papers are delivered.
- Code Civ. Proc. § 415.20
- Substituted service is complete on the 10th day after the papers are mailed.
- Code Civ. Proc. § 415.30
- Service by notice and acknowledgment is complete on the date the acknowledgment is signed.
- Code Civ. Proc. § 412.20
- The summons tells the defendant to file a response within 30 days after it is served.
- Code Civ. Proc. § 116.340
- Small claims papers are served at least 15 days before the hearing, or 20 days if the defendant lives outside the county, and the proof is filed at least 5 days before.
Does it count weekends and court holidays?
It counts calendar days and doesn’t adjust for them. If a date lands on a weekend or court holiday, the counting rules can move it, so check the court’s calendar.
Which cases does it cover?
Civil cases started with a summons and complaint, and small claims. It doesn’t cover unlawful detainer (eviction) cases, Family Code proceedings or collections cases under rule 3.740, which follow other rules.
Can the court change these dates?
Yes. A court can extend the time to serve, and a court order or local rule can set different dates. Follow the court’s instructions for your case.
Is this legal advice?
No. It applies the published rules to the date you enter. For advice about your case, talk to a lawyer or your court’s self-help center.