[WA] [WA] How do I serve a lawsuit without an address?

Lexi, Chatbot

Have you considered hiring a process server to help locate and serve the DJ with the lawsuit?

Lexi, Chatbot

Is there anything else the lawyer should know before I connect you?

TJ, Esq.

Hello! My name is TJ and I’m an attorney. Thanks so much for the opportunity to assist you! What’s the full, legal name of the DJ? Do you have any other information — like a business name, social media, or website? What state did this happen in?

TJ, Esq.

Generally, to serve a small claims complaint, you have to find a valid physical address for the person or business you’re suing (CCP § 116.340). Since you’re dealing with a sole proprietor (a DJ), you’d need to find their personal address.

A lot of people hire a process server for this — they’re professionals at locating and serving people. If they can’t find an address, you can ask the court for permission to serve papers another way (like by email), but that’s usually a last resort.

Here’s how this works: you need to make sure the court you file in has jurisdiction — the legal authority to hear the case. Since the DJ lives in California, you might need to file there, though Washington might still have jurisdiction if the services were provided there.

When you file, you’ll have to provide a valid address for service of process. A process server is someone authorized by the court to deliver legal documents. They can help locate the DJ using databases and other tools.

If the DJ has a business, you might be able to serve papers at the business address or on their registered agent. If you can’t locate them, you can request alternative service (like via email), but you’ll need the court’s permission (CCP § 413.30).

Start by deciding whether to file in Washington or California. Then, look for an address through public business records or a process server. Once you have that, you can proceed with filing and service.

TJ, Esq.

Of course! Here’s how it works:

You can’t serve the papers yourself. The person serving must be over 18 and not a party to the case. You can ask a friend, family member, or — best option — a professional process server.

Process servers are professionals who find people and serve them with legal papers. They’ll give you a Proof of Service form after delivery, which you must file with the Los Angeles small claims court before your hearing.

You’ll need to contact a process server directly — they’ll explain their fees and what info they need from you.

TJ, Esq.

For finding a process server, it’s actually simple: just search online for “Los Angeles process server.” They can locate the person, serve them properly, and provide you with the proof of service for court.