How to Domesticate an Iowa Subpoena in California
You cannot serve an Iowa subpoena directly in California. The subpoena must first be reissued by a California court under UIDDA. Here’s how the process works step by step, and how Countrywide Process can assist your firm.
Why Domestication Is Required
Courts in California don’t have the authority to enforce subpoenas issued by out-of-state jurisdictions—including Iowa. To compel discovery from a person or business in California for a case pending in Iowa, the subpoena must be domesticated.
The good news: both Iowa and California are UIDDA-compliant states. That means the domestication process is administrative—no need to file a motion, attend a hearing, or hire local counsel.
How UIDDA Simplifies the Process
The Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act (UIDDA) allows a subpoena issued in one state to be submitted to a clerk in the discovery state (California), who then issues a local subpoena with identical terms. The local subpoena carries the legal authority to compel testimony, records, or document production.
Step-by-Step Guide to Domesticate an Iowa Subpoena in California
1. Attorney Prepares the Documents
To domesticate a subpoena, the attorney must prepare:
- A file-stamped copy of the original Iowa subpoena
- A completed California Application for Discovery Subpoena Pending Outside California (SUBP-030)
- One of the appropriate California subpoena forms that matches the discovery need:
Note: Countrywide Process, LLC does not prepare legal documents. We provide the correct forms and review them for completeness and accuracy after they are completed by the attorney.
2. File in the Proper California Court
The documents must be filed in the California Superior Court in the county where the witness, business, or records are located. UIDDA does not require a court appearance or legal argument.
Some counties support eFiling; others require in-person submission. Local cover sheets or checklists may also be needed. Countrywide Process can help confirm what is required for each court.
3. Pay the Filing Fee
A $45.00 fee is required to file the Application for Discovery Subpoena (SUBP-030), under California Government Code § 70626(b)(5). Additional costs may apply for certified copies if requested.
4. Serve the California-Issued Subpoena
After issuance, the subpoena must be served under California law:
- Service must be completed by a non-party over 18 or a registered process server
- For subpoenas involving records, follow Evidence Code §§ 1560–1561
Countrywide Process handles service of process statewide with proof of service included.
When Is This Needed?
- Deposing a California resident for an Iowa lawsuit
- Subpoenaing California-held business, medical, or employment records
- Requesting electronically stored information (ESI) from a California-based service provider
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Sending an Iowa subpoena directly to a California party (not enforceable)
- Submitting incomplete or outdated California forms
- Filing in the wrong county or using incorrect document titles
- Overlooking California’s service of process rules
Countrywide Process Can Help
At Countrywide Process, we support attorneys by:
- Providing all California UIDDA forms
- Reviewing attorney-prepared forms for accuracy
- Filing with the appropriate court
- Managing statewide legal service of subpoenas
- Returning proof of service and stamped court copies
Ready to Get Started?
Either fill out our Quick Form Submission and upload your state subpoena for evaluation, Use our Subpoena Domestication Portal to create your account or call us at (888) 962-9696 for assistance today.
FAQs
Q: Do I need a California attorney to file?
No. UIDDA allows for administrative filing without legal representation.
Q: What if I need documents in a specific format?
Include specific ESI or formatting instructions in your subpoena when preparing it in Iowa.
Q: How long does the process take?
Generally, 1–3 business days from submission to issuance, depending on the court.
Q: Will the court mail me back stamped copies?
We return court-issued subpoenas and proof of service once the process is complete.
