Mail a subpoena online

A subpoena is a legal document that compels someone to do one of two things:

Subpoena ad testificandum — Requires a person to appear and give testimony (at a deposition, hearing, or trial).

Subpoena duces tecum — Requires a person or organization to produce documents or records.

Subpoenas carry legal weight. Ignoring one can result in contempt of court.

Whether you can mail a subpoena depends on:

Jurisdiction — Each state has its own rules for service of process. Some allow mailed service for certain subpoenas; others require personal service (hand delivery by a process server).

Type of proceeding — Federal court rules differ from state court rules. Administrative hearings may have different requirements than civil litigation.

Type of subpoena — Subpoenas for testimony may have stricter service requirements than subpoenas for records.

Always check your local rules. Service done incorrectly may be invalid, which can derail your case or cause delays.

When mailed service is allowed, jurisdictions typically require:

• Certified Mail — Regular first-class mail usually isn't sufficient
• Return receipt — Proof that someone signed for it
• Advance notice — Many jurisdictions require service a certain number of days before the appearance/production date

Some jurisdictions require Certified Mail plus additional steps (like also sending a copy by regular mail, or following up with a declaration of service).

A subpoena packet typically contains:

1. The subpoena itself — The formal legal document, properly filled out and signed by the issuing attorney or court clerk
2. Witness fee and mileage — Many jurisdictions require you to include payment (check your local rules for the amount)
3. Attachments or instructions — Any documents referenced in the subpoena, or specific instructions for records production

Combine everything into a single PDF in the order you want it delivered.

If your jurisdiction allows mailed service:

1. Prepare your packet — Combine the subpoena and any attachments into one PDF
2. Upload to PostalForm — We preview it for you
3. Add addresses — The witness/recipient address must be exactly correct
4. Select Certified Mail — This provides tracking and signature confirmation
5. Checkout — We print and mail via USPS

Keep your tracking number and Electronic Return Receipt as proof of service.

Personal service requirements — If your jurisdiction requires personal (hand) service, mailing won't satisfy the requirement. Use a process server or sheriff's office.

Time-sensitive service — Subpoenas often have strict timing requirements (e.g., "must be served at least 10 days before appearance date"). Plan accordingly.

Witness fees — If you're required to include a check for witness fees, you'll need to mail the subpoena yourself or use a service that can include physical items. PostalForm prints PDFs only.

Proof of service forms — You may need to file a proof of service or affidavit of service with the court. The Certified Mail receipt and Electronic Return Receipt serve as your evidence.

After mailing, keep these records:

• The Certified Mail tracking number
• The Electronic Return Receipt (showing signature and date)
• A copy of the subpoena you sent
• The date you mailed it

You may need to attach these to a declaration or proof of service form for filing with the court.

Use a process server (not mailed service) when:

• Your jurisdiction requires personal service
• The subpoena is for testimony at trial (often requires personal service)
• You've had difficulty locating or reaching the recipient
• Time is very short

Process servers can often achieve same-day service and provide sworn affidavits of service.

This page is informational only and does not constitute legal advice. Court rules and service requirements vary significantly by jurisdiction and case type. Always verify the applicable rules for your specific situation, or consult an attorney.

If mailed service is appropriate for your case, upload your PDF, select Certified Mail, and we'll print and mail it with signature confirmation.

Mail my subpoena