Can a corporation be served by mail california
In California, a corporation can be served with legal documents, including lawsuits, by mail under certain circumstances. However, there are specific requirements and procedures that must be followed to ensure valid service.
California Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) Section 415.20 provides that a corporation can be served by mail if:
- The corporation has designated an agent for service of process in the state of California.
- The agent's address is on file with the California Secretary of State's office.
- The mail service is sent to the agent's address via certified mail, return receipt requested.
To serve a corporation by mail in California, you must:
- Identify the corporation and its agent for service of process.
- Verify that the agent's address is on file with the California Secretary of State's office.
- Prepare the legal documents (e.g., summons and complaint) and have them notarized.
- Send the documents via certified mail, return receipt requested, to the agent's address.
- Keep a record of the mailing, including the date of mailing and the tracking number.
The return receipt serves as proof of service, and the corporation is deemed to have been served on the date the receipt is signed.
Some important notes:
- If the corporation does not have an agent for service of process in California, you may need to serve the corporation through other means, such as personal service or service by publication.
- If the corporation has changed its agent for service of process, you should verify the new agent's address with the California Secretary of State's office.
- Service by mail is only valid if the corporation has not objected to this method of service in writing.
It's always a good idea to consult with an attorney or a process server to ensure that you are following the correct procedures for serving a corporation in California.