How to Domesticate an Out-of-State Subpoena in Connecticut
- Mar 17, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 26
Unlike many other states, Connecticut has not adopted the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act (UIDDA). As a result, the process for domesticating an out-of-state subpoena in Connecticut involves more formal legal procedures, including court involvement and attorney certification.
Understanding Subpoena Domestication in Connecticut
A subpoena issued in another state does not automatically carry legal authority in Connecticut. Instead, the subpoena must be formally filed in a Connecticut court and approved before enforcement.
Connecticut Law on Subpoena Domestication
Under Connecticut General Statutes § 52-148e, any out-of-state subpoena must be issued by a Connecticut court before it is valid for service within the state. This requires filing a formal application with the court and obtaining approval from a Connecticut-licensed attorney.
Step-by-Step Guide to Domesticate an Out-of-State Subpoena in Connecticut
1. Obtain a Valid Subpoena from the Issuing State
Before initiating the domestication process, ensure that the subpoena complies with the issuing state's laws and includes all necessary details, such as the requested testimony, documents, or evidence.
2. Engage a Connecticut-Licensed Attorney
Because Connecticut does not follow UIDDA, an out-of-state party must retain a Connecticut-licensed attorney to file the subpoena in court. Served 123 LLC provides this service through our in-house Connecticut counsel, ensuring a same-day turnaround.
3. File a Petition with the Connecticut Superior Court
The Connecticut attorney will prepare and file a formal petition with the appropriate Connecticut Superior Court in the county where discovery is sought. The court will review the request and issue a Connecticut subpoena upon approval.
4. Ensure Compliance with Connecticut’s Subpoena Requirements
The newly issued Connecticut subpoena must adhere to the following legal requirements:
Providing reasonable time for compliance (Conn. Gen. Stat. § 52-148e).
Avoiding undue burden or expense on the subpoenaed party.
Complying with Connecticut discovery limitations and procedural rules.
5. Properly Serve the Subpoena
Connecticut requires subpoenas to be served in accordance with Connecticut General Statutes § 52-50. Acceptable service methods include:
A licensed Connecticut process server
The county sheriff
Any individual authorized under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 52-50
Proper documentation of service is required to ensure the subpoena is legally enforceable.
6. Handling Objections and Motions to Quash
Under Connecticut law, the recipient of a subpoena has the right to object or file a motion to quash if the subpoena is overly burdensome, lacks jurisdiction, or seeks privileged information. If an objection arises, the requesting party may need to file a motion to compel compliance in the Connecticut court.
7. Enforcing Compliance or Filing a Motion to Compel
If a subpoenaed party refuses to comply, the requesting party can file a motion to compel with the Connecticut Superior Court. Non-compliance may result in legal penalties, including contempt of court.
Why Choose Served 123 LLC for Subpoena Domestication in Connecticut?
Because Connecticut is not a UIDDA state, the domestication process requires additional legal steps, including attorney involvement and court approval.
Served 123 LLC is commissioned to domesticate subpoenas in Connecticut using our in-house Connecticut counsel, ensuring a fast, same-day turnaround. Our costs include:
The preparation of all necessary documents for a successful process (unless additional information is needed from you, which we will inform you of).
The filing fee to the state.
The delivery and retrieval of the subpoena from the court.
Prompt service of process.
Our expert team ensures accuracy at every step, so you can focus on your legal matters without unnecessary hurdles.
Consider Served 123 LLC for professional and efficient subpoena domestication services in Connecticut. Contact us today to get started!
