Filling out this document online is simple and fast. Follow these four steps to complete the proof of service by mail.
Step 1: Click the orange "Get Form Now" button at the top of the page.
Step 2: Use our online editor to fill in all required fields. You can type, erase, and update any field.
To complete the CH Response to Request for section, fill in the documents mailed, the recipient's name and address, the city, state, and zip code, the date of mailing, and the city and state where you mailed from. Then add the server's name, address, city, and telephone number.
Next, fill in the date of service and type or print the server's name. The server signs the document to certify the service under penalty of perjury. Review all fields before moving forward.
Check that the Judicial Council of California heading and CH page numbers appear correctly.
Step 3: Click "Done" when you have filled in all fields. Download your completed PDF file.
Step 4: Print two or three copies. File one copy with the court clerk. Keep at least one copy for your own records.
How to Complete Each Field
This proof of service has several required fields. Complete each one carefully to avoid rejection by the court.
Form CH Response to Request for: Enter the full title of the response document you mailed, such as the CH-120 or CH-200 response form.
Documents mailed: List every document you included in the envelope. Be specific. Use the exact form number and name for each document.
Mailed to (name): Write the full legal name of the person who filed the restraining order request. Match their name exactly as it appears on the court paperwork.
To this address: Enter the complete mailing address of the recipient, including the street address, city, state, and zip code.
On (date): Write the date you placed the documents in the mail. The date must be accurate. Do not use a future date.
Mailed from (city and state): Enter the city and state where the server deposited the documents. This must match the county where the server lives or works.
Server's Information: The server fills in their own name, address, city, and telephone number. This section identifies who performed the service.
Server's signature and date: The server signs and dates the document on the day they complete it. An unsigned form is not valid in court.
Understanding Civil Harassment Service Requirements
Civil harassment cases in California follow strict service rules. These rules exist to make sure that all parties are informed about the legal proceedings. Proper service protects the rights of both the person who filed the restraining order and the person responding to it.
When you respond to a civil harassment restraining order, you must send copies of your response to the opposing party. You cannot serve the documents yourself if you are a party to the case. Instead, a qualifying third person serves them on your behalf. Once the mailing is complete, that person fills out and signs this proof of service document.
California courts will not accept proof of service filed by a party to the case. If the wrong person signs the document, the service is void. You would need to repeat the mailing and file a new proof of service. This can cause significant delays in your court case.
Who Can Serve the Documents?
Not everyone can serve civil harassment court documents by mail. California law sets three clear requirements for the server:
- The server must be 18 years old or older.
- The server must not be a party to the civil harassment case.
- The server must live or work in the county where the mailing takes place.
A trusted friend, adult family member, or coworker who is not involved in your case can act as the server. The server is the person who places the documents in the mail, not the person who prepared them.
When to File the Completed Form
File the completed proof of service with the court after your server mails the response documents. The court uses it to verify that proper service took place. Submit it before your scheduled court hearing. Check your local court for specific filing deadlines, as they can vary by county.
In most California counties, you must file the original proof of service with the court clerk at least two days before the hearing date. Some counties require earlier filing. Contact the court clerk's office to confirm the exact deadline for your courthouse.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Errors on this proof of service document can delay your civil harassment case. Watch for these common mistakes:
- Having a party to the case act as the server (this voids the service).
- Leaving the mailing date or recipient address blank.
- Failing to list every document included in the mailing.
- Omitting the server's signature or date of signing.
- Using the wrong county (the server must be in the county where the mailing occurred).
Related California Civil Harassment Forms
The ch 250 form is part of the California civil harassment form series. You may also need these related documents for your case:
- CH-100 Form - Request for Civil Harassment Restraining Orders
- CH-110 Form - Temporary Restraining Order (Civil Harassment)
- CH-200 Form - Response to Request for Civil Harassment Restraining Orders
- Civil Harassment Packet - Complete set of California civil harassment forms
- Court Proof of Service Form - General proof of service for California courts
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ch 250 form used for?
It proves that you mailed your response to a civil harassment restraining order request. California courts require this proof of service to confirm that all parties were properly notified.
Can I fill out this form online?
Yes. FormsPal lets you complete it online at no cost. Fill in all fields with our editor, then download your finished PDF.
Does the recipient need to sign the document?
No. Only the server signs it. The server is the person who mailed the documents, not the person who received them.
How many copies do I need?
Print at least two copies. File one with the court clerk and keep one for your records. Some courts may require additional copies, so check your local court rules.
What happens if I do not file the completed form?
Without it on file, there is no court record that proper service occurred. The court may postpone your hearing or dismiss your response. Always file before your court date.
Can I mail the documents by email or fax instead?
No. The ch 250 form specifically covers service by first-class mail. If you use another method of service, you need a different proof of service form that covers electronic or personal delivery.
