Locates & Due Diligence for Service of Process
Updated November 2026 · Reviewed by Bradford M. Sanders Jr., CALSPro CCPS #778
Quick answer: When the person you need served has moved, ProServer CA runs a locate as part of your service job, keeps attempting at every verified address, and documents each step. If the person still can't be found, you get a signed due diligence declaration to support substituted service or an application for publication.
Active cases only. Locates are performed only in connection with service of process on an active, filed court case that we are serving. We do not sell standalone locate reports.
When a locate is needed
- The address on file is vacant, or the occupant says the person moved
- Mail is returned or a landlord confirms a move-out
- Only an old address, phone or employer is known
- You need a record of diligence before asking for substituted service or publication
How it works
- Submit the case. Case number, court, documents and the last known address.
- Attempt and verify. GPS-logged attempts at the known address; we confirm whether the person still lives there.
- Locate. If they've moved, we search for a current address and attempt service there.
- Document. Every address, attempt and search step goes into the record, with a proof of service or a signed due diligence declaration.
Why diligence matters in California
Substituted service is allowed only after personal service can't be made with reasonable diligence (CCP § 415.20(b)). Service by publication requires a showing that the person can't be served with reasonable diligence by any other method (CCP § 415.50).
A clear, dated record of attempts and search steps is what the court looks for. That's what our declaration provides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you sell skip tracing or locate reports?
No. Locates are performed only in connection with service of process on an active, filed court case that we are serving. We do not sell standalone locate reports.
What is reasonable diligence in California?
Before substituted service, the server must first attempt personal service with reasonable diligence (CCP § 415.20(b)). Before a court orders service by publication, the party must show the person can't be served with reasonable diligence by any other method (CCP § 415.50).
What is a due diligence declaration?
A signed declaration describing every attempt and search step: addresses tried, dates and times, sources checked and results. Courts rely on it when deciding substituted service or an application for publication.
What do I need to provide?
The case number and court, the documents to be served, the last known address, and any identifiers you have, such as date of birth, phone or employer.
Is there an extra charge?
Locate work is quoted with the service job before we begin. Call (661) 525-5802 for a quote.
ProServer CA
Brad Sanders
Mailing Address: 136 Allen Rd, Ste 100-1086
Bakersfield, CA 93314
Serving: Bakersfield & Kern County · Ventura County · Orange County · Los Angeles County · Inland Empire
CALSPro CCPS #778
NAPPS Member #14391
Registered & Bonded
(661) 525-5802
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