Legal Question in Family Law in California

Generally 60-days. There is not, however, much teeth in that deadline.

I agree with Mr. McCormick. The court expects you to have the summons and petition served within 60 days. The court is supposed to hold an order to show cause hearing if it has not been done, and give the petitioner an opportunity to explain the delay, but I am aware of a couple of judges in the past who have simply dismissed the case.