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The California FL 605 form plays a crucial role in legal proceedings involving family law, particularly when a governmental agency is involved. This form serves as a Notice and Acknowledgment of Receipt, allowing individuals or entities to acknowledge the receipt of important legal documents. When a party is served with these documents, they must sign the acknowledgment to confirm receipt. This process is essential, as it establishes a timeline for further actions in the case. If the served party fails to return the acknowledgment within 20 days, they may incur additional costs related to serving documents again. The FL 605 form includes sections for the sender's information, the recipient's details, and a list of documents being served, such as Summons, Complaints, and other related forms. By ensuring that all parties are properly notified and acknowledging receipt, this form helps maintain the integrity of the legal process and facilitates communication between involved parties.

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FL-605

ATTORNEY OR PARTY WITHOUT ATTORNEY (Name, State Bar number, and address): OR

FOR COURT USE ONLY

GOVERNMENTAL AGENCY (under Family Code, §§ 17400 and 17406)

 

TELEPHONE NO. (Optional):

FAX NO. (Optional):

E-MAIL ADDRESS (Optional):

ATTORNEY FOR (Name):

NAME OF COURT, JUDICIAL DISTRICT, AND BRANCH COURT, IF ANY:

PLAINTIFF/PETITIONER:

DEFENDANT/RESPONDENT:

OTHER PARENT:

CASE NUMBER:

NOTICE AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT

(Governmental)

To (name of person served):

NOTICE

The documents described below are being served on you by mail with this acknowledgment form. If you are being served on behalf of a corporation, an unincorporated association (including a partnership), or other entity, you must sign this acknowledgment in the name of the entity or a person authorized to receive service of process on behalf of the entity must sign the form to acknowledge receipt of the documents. In all other cases, you must personally sign, or a person authorized by you must sign this form to acknowledge receipt of the documents.

If the documents described below include a Summons and you fail to complete and return this acknowledgment form to the sender within 20 days of the date of mailing, you will be liable for the reasonable expenses incurred after that date in serving you or in attempting to serve you by any other methods permitted by law. If you return this form to the sender, service of a Summons is deemed complete on the date you sign the acknowledgment of receipt below.

Date of mailing:

(TYPE OR PRINT NAME)

(SIGNATURE OF SENDER)

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT

I agree I received the following (to be completed by sender before mailing):

1.

A copy of the Summons and Complaint (form FL-600) and proposed Judgment Regarding Parental Obligations (form FL-630) and a blank Answer to Complaint or Supplemental/Amended Complaint Regarding Parental Obligations (form FL-610).

2.

A copy of the Summons with standard restraining orders, and

(a) an Order to Show Cause (form FL-300) and a blank Responsive Declaration to Order to Show Cause or Notice of Motion (form FL-320)

(b) a completed and a blank Income and Expense Declaration (form FL-150).

3.

Other documents (specify):

(To be completed by recipient): Date this acknowledgment is signed:

(TYPE OR PRINT NAME)

 

(SIGNATURE OF PERSON ACKNOWLEDGING RECEIPT)

 

 

 

 

 

Petitioner/Plaintiff

Attorney of Record

Respondent/Defendant

Other parent

Other (specify):

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Form Adopted for Mandatory Use

Judicial Council of California FL-605 [Rev. January 1, 2007]

NOTICE AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT

(Governmental)

Code of Civil Procedure, §§ 415.30, 417.10; Cal. Rules of Court, rule 5.110 www.courtinfo.ca.gov

Form Specifications

Fact Name Details
Purpose The FL-605 form is used to acknowledge receipt of legal documents served by mail in family law cases.
Governing Laws This form is governed by California Family Code, sections 17400 and 17406, as well as Code of Civil Procedure, sections 415.30 and 417.10.
Signature Requirement Individuals or authorized representatives must sign the form to confirm receipt of the documents.
Deadline for Acknowledgment Recipients must return the acknowledgment form within 20 days to avoid additional service expenses.
Form Adoption The FL-605 form has been adopted for mandatory use by the Judicial Council of California since January 1, 2007.

California Fl 605: Usage Guidelines

Filling out the California FL-605 form requires careful attention to detail, as it serves a specific purpose in legal proceedings. Once completed, the form will facilitate the acknowledgment of receipt of important legal documents. The following steps will guide you through the process of accurately filling out this form.

  1. Begin by entering your name, state bar number, and address in the section labeled ATTORNEY OR PARTY WITHOUT ATTORNEY.
  2. If applicable, include your telephone number, fax number, and email address in the designated optional fields.
  3. Specify the name of the attorney for whom you are completing the form, if applicable.
  4. Indicate the name of the court, judicial district, and branch court, if any, in the corresponding section.
  5. Fill in the names of the parties involved: the plaintiff/petitioner, defendant/respondent, and other parent, as necessary.
  6. Enter the case number in the appropriate field to ensure proper identification of the case.
  7. In the NOTICE section, provide the name of the person being served.
  8. Document the date of mailing in the specified area.
  9. Complete the acknowledgment section by typing or printing your name and signing as the sender.
  10. In the ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT section, list the documents being served, ensuring that you check all applicable items.
  11. Have the recipient sign and date the acknowledgment of receipt to confirm that they have received the documents.

After completing these steps, ensure that the form is mailed to the appropriate party. Proper submission is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the legal process.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the purpose of the California FL-605 form?

The California FL-605 form is used to acknowledge receipt of legal documents in family law cases. It serves as a notice to the recipient that certain documents, such as a Summons and Complaint, have been mailed to them. By signing this form, the recipient confirms they have received these documents, which is crucial for ensuring proper legal proceedings.

Who needs to sign the FL-605 form?

The FL-605 form must be signed by the person being served or by an authorized representative if the recipient is a corporation or other entity. If the documents include a Summons, it is essential for the recipient to return the signed acknowledgment within 20 days to avoid incurring additional service costs.

What happens if the recipient does not return the FL-605 form?

If the recipient fails to return the FL-605 form within the specified 20 days, they may be responsible for any reasonable expenses incurred in attempting to serve them through other methods. This could lead to additional legal complications and costs, making timely acknowledgment important.

What documents are typically included with the FL-605 form?

The FL-605 form is often accompanied by several key documents. These can include a copy of the Summons and Complaint, proposed Judgment Regarding Parental Obligations, and various declarations related to income and expenses. The sender must specify which documents are being served when mailing the form.

How should the FL-605 form be completed?

To complete the FL-605 form, the sender must fill in their name, address, and contact information. They should also indicate the date of mailing and list the documents being served. The recipient must then sign and date the acknowledgment section to confirm receipt. It’s important to ensure all information is accurate to avoid any issues in the legal process.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Failing to fill in all required fields can lead to delays. Ensure every section is completed, especially the names and case number.

  2. Incorrect Signatures: Signing in the wrong capacity is a common mistake. If you are representing an entity, make sure to sign in the entity's name or have an authorized person sign.

  3. Missing Acknowledgment of Receipt: Forgetting to include the acknowledgment can result in service issues. Always ensure this section is completed and signed.

  4. Failure to Return on Time: Not returning the acknowledgment form within the 20-day timeframe can lead to additional costs. Keep track of deadlines to avoid this pitfall.

  5. Omitting Required Documents: Not including all necessary documents with the acknowledgment form can cause complications. Double-check that you have attached everything listed.

  6. Incorrect Mailing Address: Providing an incorrect address for service can lead to delays or non-delivery. Verify that all addresses are accurate before sending.

  7. Neglecting Optional Information: While optional fields like phone numbers and emails are not mandatory, providing them can facilitate communication. Consider including this information for ease of contact.

Documents used along the form

The California FL-605 form is used primarily for the acknowledgment of receipt of documents in family law cases. It is essential to ensure that all parties involved are properly notified of the legal actions being taken. Along with the FL-605, several other forms and documents are commonly utilized in family law proceedings. Below is a list of these forms, each serving a specific purpose in the legal process.

  • FL-600: Summons and Complaint - This form initiates a family law case. It outlines the claims made by the petitioner and informs the respondent of the legal action against them.
  • FL-610: Answer to Complaint - This document allows the respondent to formally respond to the claims made in the FL-600. It is essential for the respondent to submit this form to protect their rights.
  • FL-630: Proposed Judgment Regarding Parental Obligations - This form is used to propose a judgment concerning child support and custody arrangements. It outlines the obligations of each parent.
  • FL-300: Order to Show Cause - This form requests the court to hold a hearing on specific issues, such as modifications to custody or support orders. It is crucial for parties seeking changes in existing orders.
  • FL-320: Responsive Declaration to Order to Show Cause - This document allows a party to respond to the requests made in the FL-300. It is important for presenting one’s position to the court.
  • FL-150: Income and Expense Declaration - This form provides the court with detailed information about a party’s financial situation. It is often required for determining child support or spousal support.
  • FL-140: Declaration Under Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) - This form helps establish jurisdiction in child custody cases, ensuring that the appropriate court is addressing custody issues.
  • FL-105: Declaration of Disclosure - This document requires parties to disclose their financial information during divorce or separation proceedings. Full transparency is necessary for fair negotiations.
  • FL-160: Property Declaration - This form details the property owned by the parties involved in the case. It is essential for the equitable distribution of assets during divorce proceedings.
  • FL-200: Notice of Change of Address - This form notifies the court and other parties of any changes to a party’s address, ensuring that all communications are directed to the correct location.

Understanding these forms and their purposes can significantly aid individuals navigating the family law system in California. Each document plays a vital role in ensuring that legal processes are followed correctly and that all parties are informed and able to respond appropriately.

Similar forms

The California FL 605 form, which serves as a notice and acknowledgment of receipt for legal documents, shares similarities with several other legal forms. Each of these forms plays a role in the legal process, particularly in family law and civil procedures. Here’s a list of nine documents that are similar to the FL 605 form:

  • FL-600 (Summons and Complaint): This document initiates a legal action and is often served alongside the FL 605. It outlines the claims against the defendant and requires a response.
  • FL-610 (Answer to Complaint): This form is used by the defendant to respond to the allegations made in the FL-600. It is crucial for the defendant to acknowledge receipt of the summons and complaint.
  • FL-630 (Judgment Regarding Parental Obligations): Similar to the FL 605, this form is related to family law and outlines the court's decision regarding parental responsibilities, often served with the FL 605.
  • FL-300 (Order to Show Cause): This document is used to request a court hearing on a specific issue. It requires acknowledgment of receipt, similar to the FL 605.
  • FL-320 (Responsive Declaration to Order to Show Cause): This form allows a party to respond to an Order to Show Cause. Acknowledgment of receipt is essential for procedural compliance.
  • FL-150 (Income and Expense Declaration): This document provides financial information to the court. It is often required in family law cases and may be acknowledged alongside the FL 605.
  • FL-140 (Declaration Under Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act): This form is used in custody cases and requires acknowledgment of receipt, similar to the FL 605.
  • FL-310 (Request for Order): This form is used to request a specific court order. It also requires acknowledgment of receipt to ensure all parties are informed.
  • FL-200 (Petition for Dissolution of Marriage): This document starts the divorce process and requires acknowledgment of receipt to ensure the other party is aware of the proceedings.

Each of these forms plays a vital role in ensuring that parties involved in legal proceedings are properly informed and have the opportunity to respond appropriately.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the California FL-605 form, it is essential to approach the task with care to ensure accuracy and compliance with legal requirements. Below is a list of things you should and shouldn't do while completing this form.

  • Do provide complete and accurate information in all fields.
  • Do ensure that the name of the court, judicial district, and branch court are correctly specified.
  • Do include your contact information, such as a telephone number and email address, if applicable.
  • Do sign the acknowledgment of receipt personally or have an authorized person sign on your behalf.
  • Do return the acknowledgment form within 20 days of mailing to avoid liability for additional service costs.
  • Don't leave any sections blank unless they are specifically marked as optional.
  • Don't use a name that does not match the one on the legal documents being served.
  • Don't forget to date your signature on the acknowledgment of receipt.
  • Don't ignore the requirement to specify the documents being acknowledged if there are multiple items.

By following these guidelines, you can navigate the process of completing the FL-605 form more effectively, ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to fulfill legal obligations.

Misconceptions

Understanding the California FL-605 form can be challenging, especially with the number of misconceptions that exist. Here are ten common misunderstandings about this form:

  1. It is only for attorneys. Many believe that only attorneys can use the FL-605 form. In reality, it can also be used by individuals representing themselves in court.
  2. It is optional for service of process. Some think that using the FL-605 form is optional. However, if you are serving documents that include a Summons, completing this form is necessary to acknowledge receipt properly.
  3. Only the recipient can sign the acknowledgment. There is a misconception that only the person being served can sign the acknowledgment. In fact, an authorized representative can also sign on behalf of a corporation or entity.
  4. The form is not legally binding. Many assume that the FL-605 form does not carry legal weight. On the contrary, failing to return it within the specified time can lead to liability for additional service costs.
  5. It can be used for any type of document. Some people believe the FL-605 can be used for any legal documents. This form is specifically designed for certain documents related to family law cases.
  6. It does not require a signature. A common misconception is that a signature is not needed. In fact, both the sender and the recipient must provide signatures to validate the acknowledgment.
  7. The form is only for California residents. While the FL-605 is a California form, it can be used by anyone being served documents in California, regardless of their state of residence.
  8. It can be completed after the documents are served. Some believe they can fill out the FL-605 after receiving the documents. However, it must be completed and returned within 20 days of mailing to be effective.
  9. There are no consequences for not returning the form. Many think that failing to return the FL-605 has no repercussions. In fact, it can lead to additional costs for the sender in attempting to serve the documents.
  10. The FL-605 is only for child custody cases. Some people mistakenly think this form is limited to child custody matters. It is applicable in various family law situations, not just those involving children.

Clarifying these misconceptions can help individuals navigate the legal process more effectively and ensure compliance with necessary procedures.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the California FL-605 form, keep these key points in mind:

  • Purpose of the Form: The FL-605 is used to acknowledge receipt of legal documents served by mail, particularly in family law cases.
  • Proper Signatures Required: Ensure that the acknowledgment is signed by the correct person. If serving a corporation or entity, an authorized person must sign on behalf of that entity.
  • Timely Response is Crucial: You must return the acknowledgment within 20 days of mailing. Failing to do so may result in liability for additional service costs.
  • Completion of the Form: Fill out all required fields accurately, including the names of all parties involved and the case number.
  • Document Checklist: Confirm that the documents being acknowledged are listed correctly, including the Summons, Complaint, and any other relevant paperwork.