You can’t directly serve an Indiana subpoena in California. Instead, it must be domesticated through the California courts. Here’s how attorneys can complete the process efficiently under the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act (UIDDA).

Why Domestication is Required

Courts in California don’t have jurisdiction to enforce out-of-state subpoenas—including those from Indiana. To legally compel discovery from a person or business in California, an Indiana subpoena must first be reissued through the appropriate California Superior Court.

Thankfully, both Indiana and California have adopted UIDDA, which simplifies the process. No formal motion or local attorney is needed, as long as the subpoena is for discovery purposes in a civil case.

Step-by-Step Process to Domesticate an Indiana Subpoena in California

1. Prepare the Necessary Documents

The following items are required:

• A file-stamped copy of the original Illinois 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:
  
  
  • SUBP-035 – Deposition Subpoena for Personal Appearance
    
    SUBP-040 – Deposition Subpoena for Production of Business Records
    
  • SUBP-045 – Deposition Subpoena for Personal Appearance and Production of Documents
    

Note: Countrywide Process, LLC does not prepare legal documents. We provide the correct forms and review them once they are completed by the attorney.

2. File in the Correct California Court

The documents must be filed with the Superior Court in the county where the individual or entity is located. UIDDA does not require a motion or hearing, and many California courts allow eFiling.

Check each county’s court website or consult with our team to confirm local requirements like cover sheets or document formatting.

3. Pay the Filing Fee

A $45.00 filing fee is typically required to file the SUBP-030 application, pursuant to Gov. Code § 70626(b)(5). Additional fees may apply for certified copies or optional services.

4. Serve the Issued Subpoena

Once the California court issues the subpoena, it must be served according to California’s service of process laws:

• Must be served by someone over 18 who is not a party to the case, typically a registered process server
  
• For records subpoenas, follow Evidence Code §§ 1560–1561

Countrywide Process can assist with fast and compliant service across California.

When You Might Need This

• Deposing a witness located in California for an Indiana lawsuit
  
• Requesting business records or employment documents from a California-based entity
  
• Obtaining evidence (including ESI) located in California relevant to your Indiana civil case

Avoid These Mistakes

• Mailing your Indiana subpoena directly to a California witness—this is not enforceable
  
• Using incorrect or incomplete California forms
  
• Filing in the wrong county or court division
  
• Skipping the review of your forms before submission

How Countrywide Process Can Help

At Countrywide Process, we streamline subpoena domestication across California. While we don’t prepare documents, we support attorneys by:

• Providing California-compliant UIDDA forms
• Reviewing completed forms for accuracy
• Filing in the proper Superior Court
• Handling service of process anywhere in California
• Returning stamped copies and proof of service

Ready to Begin?

Use our Subpoena Domestication Portal or call (888) 962-9696 to start your order today.

FAQs

Q: Can I serve the Indiana subpoena as-is in California?
 No. It must be domesticated through the California court system to be legally enforceable.

Q: Do I need a California attorney?
 No. Under UIDDA, local representation is not required for this type of discovery filing.

Q: How long does it take to domesticate?
 Generally, 1–3 business days, depending on the court.

Q: What if I need to subpoena ESI (electronic records)?
 Include specific instructions in the subpoena regarding format, scope, and delivery method.