The writ must be served in the same manner as a summons in civil action, except when otherwise expressly directed by the Court.
§ 1073.Service of Writ
Title 1. Of Writs of Review, Mandate, and Prohibition · Chapter 1. Writ of Review · Enacted 1872 · no amendments on record · Last verified July 29, 2026
In one sentenceSection 1073 requires a writ of review to be served the same way a summons is served in a civil action, unless the court expressly directs a different method of service.
Full Text of § 1073
Plain-English Summary
Service of the writ follows the same rules that govern serving a summons at the start of an ordinary lawsuit -- the same familiar procedures for delivering process to the party being called into a proceeding.
That default isn't absolute. If the court expressly directs a different method, that direction controls instead. Section 1073 exists mainly so litigants don't have to guess: absent a specific court order, civil-action service rules apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a writ of review served?
The same way a summons is served in a civil action, unless the court expressly directs a different method.
Can a court order a different way to serve the writ?
Yes. Section 1073 allows the court to expressly direct a different method of service.
Amendment History
Enacted 1872.
Source & verification. Section text is reproduced verbatim from
the Deering's California Codes Annotated / vLex. Enacted by the California Legislature.
Last verified July 29, 2026.
· Official source
Also known as: service of writ of review californiahow to serve writ of certiorari