Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California
Amendment To Complaint or First Amended Complaint
I understand that a Plaintiff may file a First Amended Complaint once anytime before service of process. If errors are discovered in the First Amended Complaint may a Plaintiff file an amendment to First Amended Complaint and then serve the entirety or would a Plaintiff have to file a leave to file amendment to First Amended Complaint with the Court. Thanks
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Amendment To Complaint or First Amended Complaint
In actuality, you can file a FAC at anytime before the other side answers. However, if the defendant has an attorney, perhaps you and the attorney can sign a stipulation seeking a court order permitting you to make the amendments. That way, you don't have to go through the hassle of setting a hearing.
Re: Amendment To Complaint or First Amended Complaint
Dear Christopher:
The so-called "first amendment of right" only applies to the First Amendment/Complaint before a party responds. With a 2nd amended complaint, that needs to be done by motion and or via stipulation of opposing party.
Sincerely,
Mark Geyer
Re: Amendment To Complaint or First Amended Complaint
Not without leave of court. That's why you need an experienced attorney... To prevent malpractice on yourself.