California  |  Credit and Debt Law

Look at the summons it should say on it.. Typically when you are served you have 30 days to respond if it is not an eviction case, nor a small claims action. Eviction cases move much faster. If you don't know what date you were served because it was a substituted service call the lawyer on the complaint and ask for a copy of the proof of service. If they refuse you may be able to get a copy at the court because they will have to file it. By the way if they refuse write them a letter to that effect and save a copy in case you might have to contest the date of service later on.

Hope this helps ,and good luck to you.