FL-115 is a California family court form used to prove that the respondent in a family law case has been properly served with the required legal documents. When someone files for divorce, legal separation, annulment, or a parental relationship case, they must legally notify the other party. This notification happens through a process called “service of process.” FL-115 is the form that confirms to the court that service was completed correctly and in accordance with California law.

The form documents exactly which papers were served, such as the Summons (FL-110), the Petition (FL-100 or FL-200), and any additional forms required at the start of the case. It also identifies how the documents were delivered—most commonly through personal service, where a non-party adult hands the papers directly to the respondent. The form may also record substitute service, where documents are left with an adult at the respondent’s home or workplace and then mailed. Each method has strict rules, and FL-115 verifies that these rules were followed.

FL-115 must be completed by the person who served the papers, not by the petitioner. The server must be at least 18 years old and cannot be involved in the case. This ensures the process remains neutral and legally valid. The server signs the form under penalty of perjury, meaning the information provided must be accurate and truthful. Any incorrect or incomplete details can delay the case or require the petitioner to repeat the service process.

Once FL-115 is filled out, it is filed with the court to show that the respondent has officially been notified of the case. The court cannot move forward—especially toward default judgment—unless proper service is proven. Filing this form also starts the respondent’s 30-day deadline to file a Response. If the respondent does nothing within that time frame and FL-115 is on record, the petitioner may request that the court enter a default.

In short, FL-115 is a critical step in any family law case. It verifies proper notice, protects both parties’ rights, and ensures the court has authority to proceed. Without it, the case cannot legally move forward. Proper service and proper filing of this form help the process run smoothly and prevent delays or disputes later on.