A civil complaint in Arizona must be served with a summons before the defendant is legally obligated to respond. Proper service starts the legal clock and is the foundation of every civil lawsuit.
The Summons and Complaint must be served together. The summons is issued by the court clerk and commands the defendant to appear or respond.
Personal service is required for initial service of a civil complaint. Substitute service may be used after unsuccessful personal service attempts.
For corporations, LLCs, and other entities, service is made on the registered agent. An officer or director may also accept service.
The defendant has 20 days to respond after personal service in Arizona Superior Court (30 days if served outside the state).
Maricopa County
Pinal County