Trying to serve a Connecticut subpoena in California? You must first domesticate it properly under California law using the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act (UIDDA). Here’s a simple guide to help you complete the process.

Why Domestication Is Required

California courts do not have automatic jurisdiction to enforce subpoenas issued by out-of-state courts, including those from Connecticut.
Before serving a Connecticut subpoena in California, it must be domesticated, meaning reissued as a California subpoena through the California court system.

Both Connecticut and California have adopted the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act (UIDDA), streamlining the process to enforce subpoenas across state lines for civil cases.

Step-by-Step Guide to Domesticate a Connecticut Subpoena in California

Here’s what you need to do to properly domesticate a Connecticut subpoena for use in California:

1. Prepare the Required Documents

You will need:

• A file-stamped copy of the original Connecticut subpoena
  
• A completed Application for Discovery Subpoena (SUBP-030) form
  
• The appropriate California subpoena form based on your discovery request:
  
  • 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
    

Make sure the California subpoena is filled out but left unsigned. The California Superior Court Clerk will officially issue it.

2. File the Documents in the Appropriate California County

You must file your documents in the Superior Court in the county where the person, business, or records are located.
UIDDA allows administrative filing without needing to schedule a hearing or hiring a local attorney.

Filing procedures differ by county. Some courts allow e-Filing; others may require in-person filing with original (wet) signatures.

3. Pay the Filing Fee

There is a $45.00 filing fee to process an Application for Discovery Subpoena (SUBP-030), pursuant to California Government Code § 70626(b)(5).
Additional fees may apply for certified copies if needed.

4. Serve the Issued California Subpoena

After the California court issues the subpoena, it must be served according to California law by:

• A registered process server, or
  
• Any adult over the age of 18 who is not a party to the case.
  

If subpoenaing business records, ensure compliance with California Evidence Code §§ 1560–1561 regarding advance notice, deadlines, and custodian responses.

Common Reasons to Domesticate a Connecticut Subpoena in California

You might need to domesticate a Connecticut subpoena in California if:

• A witness or deponent resides or works in California
  
• A California company holds documents or electronically stored information (ESI) relevant to your Connecticut case
  
• You need discovery from a California individual or entity for litigation pending in Connecticut courts
  

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

• Do not serve a Connecticut subpoena directly in California. It must be reissued through a California court.
  
• Use the correct California Judicial Council forms. UIDDA requires you to submit SUBP-030 along with the proper deposition subpoena form (SUBP-035, 040, or 045).
  
• Review local rules before filing. Filing procedures and requirements can vary by California county.
  
• Plan ahead. Allow enough time for court processing and service of the subpoena to meet deadlines.
  

We Can Help You Handle It

At Countrywide Process, we specialize in subpoena domestication services across California:

Review your Connecticut subpoena and documentation
Complete the proper California forms under UIDDA
File with the correct California court
Issue and serve the California subpoena in compliance with state law
Return court-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 Connecticut subpoena in California without domestication?
No. California law requires out-of-state subpoenas to be domesticated through the local Superior Court.

Q: How long does the domestication process take?
Typically between 1–3 business days, depending on the court’s processing times.

Q: Can I handle this without a California attorney?
Yes. UIDDA allows out-of-state litigants to file without needing local legal counsel.

Q: Can I subpoena electronic data or emails?
Yes. Specify exactly what electronically stored information (ESI) you are requesting, including file formats if necessary.

Q: Does UIDDA apply to criminal subpoenas?
No. UIDDA only governs civil cases. Criminal subpoenas must follow different procedures.