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CIV-100 Guidance: Request for Entry of Default (California)

The CIV-100 Request for Entry of Default form is used by a plaintiff to request a default judgment against a defendant who failed to respond to a lawsuit in California's civil court. Jump to guide on filling it out.

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The information provided on this website/page is for general informational purposes only. It should not be construed as legal advice, nor does it create an attorney-client relationship between the author and any readers or users of this content.

Reviewed By

Jenna Zebrowski, JD, MBA
Attorney
Jenna Zebrowski is a JD/MBA graduate from Texas Tech University School of Law. After working in Mexico City for 3 years, she returned to the US and spent over a decade working in-house for large and small companies, including franchises, in a real estate leasing capacity, as well as in the mortgage and title industries. In private practice since 2019, Jenna is passionate about advocacy and protection for her clients’ rights, working collaboratively towards problem prevention, and solution, when necessary.

Tips for filling out form CIV-100

When completing form CIV-100, pay special attention to these less obvious sections:

Item 1c

Defendant Names

When listing defendants in Section 1c, ensure you use the exact names as they appear in the original complaint or cross-complaint. Accuracy here is crucial for the default entry to be processed correctly.
Item 1e

Clerk's Judgment Options

If you're seeking a clerk's judgment under Code Civ. Proc., § 585(a), remember to complete the declaration under Code Civ. Proc., § 585.5 on the reverse side of this form. Failing to do so might result in delays or rejection of the request for entry of default.
Item 5

Declaration Details

For Section 5, double-check whether your case falls under any of the specified categories, such as the Unruh Act or Rees-Levering Motor Vehicle Sales and Finance Act. Accurately declaring the applicable category can impact the court’s processing of your default request.
Item 6

Declaration of Mailing

In Section 6, after mailing copies of the Request for Entry of Default, document both the names and addresses of where the documents were sent. It is important to use the last known addresses to ensure proper notification.
Item 8

Military Status

In Section 8, confirming the defendant's military status is essential. Use the provided online resources to verify, as default judgments have specific protections for military personnel. Incomplete or incorrect information can lead to delays or challenges to the default judgment.

What to do after filing form CIV-100

1
Confirm default status: After submitting the Request for Entry of Default, regularly check with the court clerk to confirm if the default has been entered against the defendant. You may receive a notification, but verifying with the clerk ensures the process is complete.
2
Prepare for judgment: If the default is entered, begin preparing the necessary documentation for the judgment you are seeking, whether it’s a clerk’s judgment or a court judgment. Follow the court’s specific requirements for this process.
3
Schedule a court hearing: If seeking a court judgment, schedule a hearing with the court. This step is necessary if the judgment requires testimony or court oversight, in accordance with Code of Civil Procedure section 585(b)
4
Gather evidence: Collect and organize all evidence and documentation needed to support your case at the judgment hearing. This may include contracts, invoices, communications, or other relevant documentation.
5
Attend the court hearing: Attend the scheduled court hearing prepared to present your case, including any evidence and testimony that supports your request for judgment. Follow all court procedures and protocols during the hearing.
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