The case must be filed in the correct venue . Click here to go to the Maps Section for help determining the correct precinct for your case. Precinct Boundary Maps are located on the bottom of each Court's page. The summons and complaint must be served on the defendant. The summons and complaint may be served by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested.
Service is deemed complete when the defendant signs for it.
The return receipt must then be filed with the court. If the postal service does not enter a date of delivery or the date is not legible, service is deemed complete on the date the return receipt is filed with the court. You should use restricted delivery to ensure the named party signs the return receipt. If the claim is against a corporation, the statutory agent or an officer of the corporation must be served on behalf of the corporation named in the complaint. You also can serve the defendant through a private process server.