Most common
Regular Service
$100
First attempt made within 72 hours of receiving documents.
- Includes up to 3 attempts
- One person / one address
- Good for standard deadlines
Los Angeles County
Process Service & E-filing in Southern California
Reliable process service for legal documents throughout Los Angeles County, including routine, rush, expedited, same-day, appointment, landlord/tenant, and restricted service options.
Starting at
$100 Routine process serviceIncludes up to three attempts at one address unless otherwise noted.
What is included
Standard Service Details
Three Attempts Included
Standard rates include up to three attempts at one address for one person or entity, unless the address is determined to be bad or unless a specific service type states otherwise.
Per Person / Per Location
Pricing is generally quoted per person served and per address location. Additional defendants, entities, or locations may require additional fees.
Proof of Service
Proof of Service can be prepared and returned after completion. Same-day proof return and filing options are available for an additional fee.
Flat fees
Choose Your Service Speed
LA County process service rates based on how quickly you need the first attempt made. Standard rates include up to three attempts at one address unless otherwise noted.
Next day
Expedited Service
$150
First attempt made next day. Also used for restraining orders or restricted serves.
- Next-day first attempt
- Available for TRO matters
- Restricted serve option
Fastest
Same-Day Service
$180
First attempt made same day when available. Orders should be received by 2:00 PM.
- Same-day first attempt
- 2:00 PM order deadline
- Call to confirm availability
Special Service Types
These are used when the serve requires a specific method, appointment, court-approved e-service, or mailing.
Serve by Appointment
$185
One attempt at one address, place, and time. Includes 30 minutes of waiting time.
E-Service
$40
Electronic service by email, text, or approved platform when permitted by the court.
Landlord / Tenant Notices
From $80
For 3-day notices, 30-day notices, UD-related notices, and other landlord/tenant documents.
Serve by Mail (First Class)
$40
Limited availability. Includes USPS Certificate of Mailing. Tracking and heavy mail may cost extra.
Serve by Mail (Certified)
$80
Includes USPS Priority tracking and delivery confirmation attached to the Proof of Service.
Add-ons
Proofs, Filing, Search & Surcharges
Same-Day Proof Return
$45
Expedited return of an unfiled Proof of Service on the same day the documents are served.
Declaration of Facts of Serve
$79.50
Case-specific declaration when additional service facts or follow-up documentation are needed.
Notarized Affidavit of Service
$79.50
Includes affidavit preparation, notary fee, travel, and time spent completing notarization.
File / E-file Proof of Service
$79.50
Filing or e-filing of Proof of Service with the court clerk. Conformed copy returned after filing.
Added Distance
$35–$45
May apply for farther LA County areas or extended travel outside the primary service zone.
Difficult Access
$35–$45
Applies to gated communities, restricted buildings, security buildings, detention centers, difficult parking, or canyon access.
Skip Trace Locate
$135
Locate service for parties who have moved, are difficult to find, or may require additional search work.
Skip Trace / Plate Check Combo
$185
California plate or VIN-related search support. Availability and use may depend on the matter.
Postal Search
$135
Search support for forwarding address, PO box holder information, or moved-party issues. Results may be limited.
Watch & Wait
$100/hr
Waiting time for difficult service situations. Minimums may apply depending on the assignment.
Document Printing
$0.50/page
Printing fee for documents that need to be printed before service or filing.
USPS Certificate of Mailing
$39.50
Useful for landlord/tenant matters, posted notices, and follow-up mailings when required.
Court support
Filing & Appearance Support
In-Person Courthouse Filing
$195
Same-day or next-day filing when available. Includes 30 minutes of waiting time and courthouse parking.
Court Appearance Half-Day Fee
$300
Appearance to testify regarding facts of service. Availability and location limits may apply.
Electronic Court Appearance
$200
Remote court appearance by telephone or video platform during the morning session.
Restricted timing
After-Hours, Weekend & Holiday Surcharges
Weekend-Only Serve
+$100
Applies when the serve can only be attempted on Saturday or Sunday and not during standard weekday hours.
Early Morning Only
+$125
Applies to attempts restricted to early morning time windows, generally around 6:30 AM to 8:30 AM.
Late Night Only
+$95
Applies to attempts restricted to late night windows, generally around 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM.
Holiday Only
+$175
Applies when service must be attempted on a holiday. Advance notice is required.
Important Notes
- Prices are starting rates and may change based on the facts of the assignment.
- Court filing fees, court fees, postage, oversized mail, certified mail, parking, tolls, and advanced costs may be additional.
- Some documents may not be eligible for service by mail or electronic service. Confirm with the court or a qualified legal professional when needed.
- SoCal Legal Services provides legal support services and does not provide legal advice.
Ready to serve?
Request Process Service in LA County
Send the documents, service address, deadline, and any special instructions. We will confirm pricing, timing, and availability.