Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California
Serving Probate Docs by Attorney
Can an attorney representing the executor serve documents himself, by mail? Isn't he considered a ''party of the action?'' I am representing myself pro per, I cannot serve papers. Can you please cite the pertinent code?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Serving Probate Docs by Attorney
Your premise is wrong. An attorney is an officer of the court, s/he is not a "party of the action." You cannot serve papers because you're a party.
Re: Serving Probate Docs by Attorney
Yes, the attorney for the exectutor may serve notices, etc. As a party, you cannot, but since you're pro per, you can prepare the paperwork and have a friend sign the proof of service and put the envelopes in a mailbox. It doesn't have to be anyone with any particular qualifications. The statute is Code of Civil Procedure � 1013a.