Served with a Lawsuit? Next Steps in California

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Being served with a lawsuit can be overwhelming, but how you respond can make a big difference. In California, strict deadlines apply, and ignoring a complaint can have serious consequences. In the video below, real estate attorney Edrin Shamtob explains what to do after you’re served and how to protect your rights from the start.

Transcript:

Have you been served with a lawsuit? Don’t panic, but don’t ignore it either.

Hi, I’m Edrin Shamtob, a California attorney with over a decade of courtroom and litigation experience. If you’ve been served with a complaint, your next move is critical. Let’s make sure it’s the right one. If you like this video, please like, share, and subscribe so you don’t miss out on any future content.

What to Do When Served with a Lawsuit

When you’re served with a complaint, the clock starts ticking right away.

Respond to Avoid Default Judgements

In most cases, you only have 30 days to respond, and ignoring the lawsuit can lead to a default judgment, which means the court could automatically rule against you without ever hearing your side of the story.

Every detail in the lawsuit matters: who’s suing you, why they’re suing you, and what they’re asking for. This isn’t the time for guesswork or delay.

Contact SNS Law Group If You’re Facing a Legal Action

At SNS Law Group, we don’t just react. We protect, defend, and resolve. If you’re facing legal action, get ahead of it. Follow us here, visit our website, and let’s take control of the situation together.

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At SNS Law Group, we have consistently nurtured a collegial approach among our lawyers, assuring effective teamwork in handling client work while maintaining a results-driven culture and providing exceptional legal counsel with a clear focus on value. At our California law firm, we are committed to the continuous development of our people and the resources essential to delivering effective and distinctive legal services throughout Southern California.

Backed by years of experience and a dedication to putting the needs of our clients first, SNS Law Group is proud to serve the Los Angeles County community with exceptional expertise. When you need legal help, we’re the team to turn to. With our reputation for being able to turn even the most difficult cases around, it’s our mission to go the extra mile for each and every client that turns to us for assistance in their time of need.

 

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At SNS Law Group, we recognize how challenging it can be when a property is no longer safe or suitable to live in. Issues such as mold, pest infestations, lack of heat, broken plumbing, or other habitability concerns can quickly escalate into serious disputes. Our attorneys bring extensive experience in addressing Habitability Claims in Los Angeles, working to resolve conflicts efficiently and ensure that the responsibilities of all parties are upheld under California law.

Whether you are a tenant concerned about unsafe conditions, a landlord facing a habitability dispute, or a property owner seeking legal guidance, we are here to provide clear advice and strong representation. With a proven record in Real Estate Habitability cases and related litigation, SNS Law Group is committed to finding fair solutions, pursuing necessary repairs or compensation, and protecting your rights every step of the way.

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Client
Testimonials

Vector

I can’t say enough good things about SNS Law Group. After being involved in a car accident, I was overwhelmed—not just by the physical recovery, but by the thought of dealing with insurance, bills, and the legal process. Edrin, Bijan and Khushboo made navigating my personal injury claim incredibly easy from start to finish.

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- Mariya Mazarati

Vector

Thank you Bijan , Edrin and staff .
Thank you for helping property owners like myself deal with complicated tenant situation and have a great successful results glad to work with this group very knowledgeable , easy to communicate , wonderful staff glad to have dedicated attorneys on my side .

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- Busy Bee J.

Vector

I am very pleased with the legal assistance provided by Bijan & Edrin. When I first approached them, I was concerned about how to handle my legal issue. The were both clear and professional throughout the whole process, explaining everything in a way that was easy to understand.

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- Jasmin Danialian

Vector

Bijan was very patient and helpful in answering my Landlord-Tenant questions. It was a relief getting all my questions answered to bring clarity and assurance that I am doing things legally. Thank you so much Bijan!

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- Rudy V.

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