Trying to serve a Florida subpoena on a person or business in California? Learn how to properly domesticate a subpoena under the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act (UIDDA), avoid rejections, and complete service legally.
Why Domestication Is Required
When you need testimony, records, or other discovery from someone located in California for a case pending in Florida, you can’t simply serve them with a Florida subpoena. California law requires that the subpoena be domesticated—meaning reissued by a California court—before it becomes enforceable.
Fortunately, both Florida and California have adopted the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act (UIDDA), which enables a streamlined, efficient process to domesticate foreign subpoenas for discovery purposes in civil cases.
Step-by-Step Guide to Domesticate a Florida Subpoena in California
Here’s how to convert your Florida subpoena into a valid California subpoena that can be legally served:
1. Prepare the Required Documents
To domesticate your Florida subpoena, you’ll need:
- A file-stamped copy of the original subpoena issued by the Florida court
- A completed Application for Discovery Subpoena (SUBP-030)
- One of the following California subpoena forms, based on what you’re requesting:
The California subpoena must be completed but unsigned. The court clerk will review and issue it.
2. File in the Appropriate California County
Submit all documents to the Superior Court in the county where the witness or custodian of records is located. UIDDA requires no formal hearing or motion, and you are not required to retain local counsel.
Check the court’s local filing rules—some allow eFiling, while others require in-person submission or wet signatures.
3. Pay the Required Filing Fee
California imposes a $45.00 fee to file an Application for Discovery Subpoena (SUBP-030), pursuant to Government Code § 70626(b)(5). Additional fees may apply if certified copies are requested.
4. Serve the California-Issued Subpoena
After the court clerk issues your California subpoena, it must be served in accordance with California laws. A registered process server or any non-party over 18 years old can serve the documents.
For business records, ensure compliance with Evidence Code §§ 1560–1561, including timelines and proof of service requirements.
Common Reasons for Domestication
You may need to domesticate a Florida subpoena in California when:
- A key witness or subject of the case resides or works in California
- Documents or electronically stored information (ESI) are located with a California-based business
- You need to depose an individual for use in a Florida state or federal case
Avoid These Common Pitfalls
- Do not serve a Florida subpoena directly in California. It must be reissued by a California court before service.
- Do not use the wrong forms. Always include SUBP-030 along with one of the California subpoena forms listed above.
- Don’t skip local court checks. Counties may require UIDDA-specific cover sheets, instructions, or postage-paid envelopes.
- Leave enough time for processing. Court issuance, proper service, and compliance require planning.
We Can Help You Handle It
At Countrywide Process, we handle the entire domestication process so you don’t have to:
- Review your Florida subpoena
- Prepare the required California forms
- File with the appropriate California court
- Serve the subpoena in accordance with state law
- Provide stamped copies and proof of service
Ready to Get Started?
Use our Platform to submit your Subpoena Domestication Order or call us at (888) 962-9696 to begin the process today.
FAQs
Q: Can I serve a Florida subpoena in California without court reissuance?
No. California requires subpoenas from other states to be domesticated under UIDDA before service.
Q: Do I need a California attorney to file?
No. UIDDA allows you to file without representation as long as all required documents are properly prepared.
Q: What is the turnaround time?
Most domestications are processed within 1–3 business days, depending on the county and filing method.
Q: Can I request emails or digital files?
Yes, you can request electronically stored information (ESI). Just be clear and specific about what you’re seeking.
Q: Will I receive proof of filing and service?
Yes. We provide court-stamped copies of the issued subpoena and a valid Proof of Service once completed.
