Case Studies
Plans & Pricing
Log InGet a Demo
Get Started
No Credit Card Required
Product
Resources
Case Studies
Plans & Pricing

Table of Contents

CIV-161 Guidance: Order to Show Cause Why Lien (California)

The CIV-161 Order to Show Cause Why Lien form is used by government agents to initiate the court process to remove or release a lien or encumbrance on their property. Jump to guide on filling it out.

Don't settle for the empty PDF.

See how Gavel’s workflows can generate a CIV-161 form for you or your clients

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-161

When completing form CIV-161, pay special attention to these less obvious sections:

Item 1

Respondent's Name

Ensure that the respondent's name is filled out correctly, as it is crucial for the compliance and identification during the legal proceedings. Double-check the spelling and use the official name as it appears in any legal documents or summonses.
Item 2

Notice of Hearing

Carefully note the date, time, and place for the hearing specified in this section. The hearing cannot be scheduled earlier than 14 days from the date of the order, as mentioned in the form. Make sure to coordinate with the court clerk to confirm the availability and scheduling.
Item 3a

Manner of Service

The manner of service for delivering the Order to Show Cause and other documents is critical. Be specific about whether personal service, mail, or another method is being used, and ensure compliance with the applicable legal requirements for the manner of service you choose.
Item 3b

Opposition Deadline

Pay attention to the deadline for filing opposition papers. This must be completed before the date specified, and it's important to communicate this clearly to the respondent if they intend to challenge the petition.
Item 3d

Proof of Service

Make sure that proof of service for the petitioner's papers is prepared and submitted to the court by the specified deadline. Without this proof, the order may not be processed or considered timely.

What to do after filing form CIV-161

1
Ensure that the Order to Show Cause, the attached petition, and any supporting documents are properly served to the respondent by the specified deadline and manner as ordered by the court.
2
Prepare and file any necessary opposition or reply papers by the deadlines specified in the Order to Show Cause, including ensuring proper service on the opposing party.
3
Collect proof of service for all documents served, verifying that the respondent received the relevant paperwork within the deadlines set forth by the court.
4
Attend the court hearing on the specified date and time indicated in the Notice of Hearing to present your case or respond to the petition, whether represented by an attorney or self-represented.
5
Await the decision of the court, which may be delivered during the hearing or communicated later in writing, to determine the next steps based on the court's ruling regarding the lien or encumbrance.
Gavel automates client intake, document drafting, and revenue generation so you can focus on practicing law.