How do I serve an Summons/Complaint for Unlawful Detainer?

How do I serve an Summons/Complaint for Unlawful Detainer?

An Unlawful Detainer is a lawsuit to evict a tenant, usually for non-payment of rent, but also for the purpose of simply getting rid of a tenant for any reason. 

The Summons in an Unlawful Detainer action has only five (5) day response time, as opposed to a civil summons which has a thirty (30) day response time. A Summons/Complaint in an Unlawful Detainer can be served either personally or substitute service. If after diligent effort the documents cannot be served in one of the manners available for service, the the court may order service to be made by posting, then mailing a copy by certified mail to the party to be served. Service is effective ten (10) days from the date of mailing. (CCP 415.45, CCP 1167)

The manner of service will change if the service documents include a Prejudgment Claim of Right to Possession.

The Fee for Service will vary depending on how many defendants end up being served.

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