Service of Process

The California Military Department – Office of the Staff Judge Advocate receives service of process documents and subpoenas between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at 10601 Bear Hollow Drive, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670.

Please note that our authority is limited to accepting service of process only on behalf of the California Military Department, its elements and subordinate units, including the California National Guard, the California State Guard, The California Cadet Corps, and California Military Department officials named in their official capacity. 

The California Military Department (CMD), its subordinate elements and units, has not agreed to electronic service of summons/complaints in civil cases per the Rule of Court and other applicable laws. In addition, the CMD has not agreed to receive service of summons/complaints in civil cases by facsimile.

NOTE: The California Military Department Office of the Staff Judge Advocate cannot advise you whether you are required to serve process under a specific statute or in a specific manner. If you are unsure about the requirements of service, we suggest that you consult with private counsel.

For documents naming “California Military Department” or “California National Guard” or any subordinate unit/entity of the California Military Department, the agent for service is Brigadier General Robert F. Paoletti, Director of Joint Staff. The Director of Joint Staff may be served by contacting the Office of the Staff Judge Advocate to arrange for personal service at the security building located at 10601 Bear Hollow Drive, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. The Office of the Staff Judge Advocate may be reached at (916) 854-3505 during normal business hours. It is highly recommended to coordinate with the Office of the Staff Judge Advocate prior to attempting service.

The CMD may not accept service in the following instances:

Documents naming an individual Soldier/Airman/employee as a party in their unofficial or private capacity.

Documents naming “State of California,” “The United States of America,” “The Army National Guard,” “The Air National Guard,” “The United States Army,” “The United States Air Force,” “The United States Space Force,” and, “The Department of Defense” as a party.

Documents and subpoenas directed to the “State of California” must be served on the Office of the Attorney General (the Attorney General’s Sacramento office is located at 1300 I Street).