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Oregon Rules of Civil Procedure

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Oregon Process Server Licensing Requirements

Any person over the age of 18 and not a party may serve process in Oregon. State law requires that any person who serves a Writ of Garnishment must have E&O coverage with minimum limits of $100,000. [Oregon Revised Statutes § 29.165]

DID YOU KNOW? Oregon Process Serving Laws

  • An Oregon summons must contain these notices to the parties being served (click here)
  • Substituted service in Oregon at a residence can be made upon any person 14 years or older

Oregon Rules of Civil Procedure

Please note that lobbyists are active in the state of Oregon and laws concerning civil procedure and process serving can change. Therefore the information listed below may have been amended. For updated process serving legislation, please visit the Oregon State Legislature website.

Summons

Subpoena

RULE 7. SUMMONS

A. Definitions.

For purposes of this rule, “plaintiff” shall include any party issuing summons and “defendant” shall include any party upon whom service of summons is sought. For purposes of this rule, a “true copy” of a summons and complaint means an exact and complete copy of the original summons and complaint with a certificate upon the copy signed by an attorney of record, or if there is no attorney, by a party, which indicates that the copy is exact and complete.

B. Issuance.

Any time after the action is commenced. plaintiff or plaintiff’s attorney may issue as many original summonses as either may elect and deliver such summonses to a person authorized to serve summons under section E of this rule. A summons is issued when subscribed by plaintiff or an active member of the Oregon State Bar.

C. Contents; Time for Response; Notice to Party Served.

  • Contents. The summons shall contain:
    1. Title. The title of the cause, specifying the name of the court in which the complaint is filed and the names of the parties to the action.
    2. Direction to Defendant. A direction to the defendant requiring defendant to appear and defend within the time required by subsection (2) of this section and a notification to defendant that in case of failure to do so, the plaintiff will apply to the court for the relief demanded in the complaint.
    3. Subscription; Post Office Address. A subscription by the plaintiff or by an active member of the Oregon State Bar, with the addition of the post office address at which papers in the action may be served by mail.
  • Time for Response.

If the summons is served by any manner other than publication, the defendant shall appear and defend within 30 days from the date of service. If the summons is served by publication pursuant to subsection D(6) of this rule, the defendant shall appear and defend within 30 days from the date stated in the summons. The date so stated in the summons shall be the date of the first publication.

  • Notice to Party Served.
    1. In General All summonses, other than a summons referred to in paragraph (b) or (c) of this subsection, shall contain a notice printed in type size equal to at least 8-point type which may be substantially in the following form:

NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: READ THESE PAPERS CAREFULLY! You must “appear” in this case or the other side will win automatically. To “appear” you must file with the court a legal paper called a “motion” or “answer.” The “motion” or “answer” must be given to the court clerk or administrator within 30 days along with the required filing fee. It must be in proper form and have proof of service on the plaintiff’s attorney or, if the plaintiff does not have an attorney, proof of service on the plaintiff.

If you have questions, you should see an attorney immediately.

If you need help in finding an attorney, you may call the Oregon State Bar’s Lawyer Referral Service at (503) 684-3763 or toll-free in Oregon at (800) 452-7636.

  1. Service for Counterclaim. A summons to join a party to respond to a counterclaim pursuant to Rule 22 D(1) shall contain a notice printed in type size equal to at least 8-point type which may be substantially in the following form:

NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: READ THESE PAPERS CAREFULLY! You must “appear” to protect your rights in this matter. To “appear” you must file with the court a legal paper called a “motion” or “reply.” The “motion” or “reply” must be given to the court clerk or administrator within 30 days along with the required filing fee. It must be in proper form and have proof of service on the defendant’s attorney or, if the defendant does not have an attorney, proof of service on the defendant.

If you have questions, you should see an attorney immediately. If you need help in finding an attorney, you may call the Oregon State Bar’s Lawyer Referral Service at (503) 684-3763 or toll-free in Oregon at (800) 452-7636.

  1. Service on Persons Liable for Attorney Fees. A summons to join a party pursuant to Rule 22 D(2) shall contain a notice printed in type size equal to at least 8-point type which may be substantially in the following form:

NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: READ THESE PAPERS CAREFULLY! You must “appear” to protect your rights in this matter. To “appear” you must file with the court a legal paper called a “motion” or “reply.” The “motion” or “reply” must be given to the court clerk or administrator within 30 days along with the required filing fee. It must be in proper form and have proof of service on the defendant’s attorney or, if the defendant does not have an attorney, proof of service on the defendant.

If you have questions, you should see an attorney immediately. If you need help in finding an attorney, you may call the Oregon State Bar’s Lawyer Referral Service at (503) 684-3763 or toll-free in Oregon at (800) 452-7636.

D. Manner of service.

  • Notice required. Summons shall be served, either within or without this state, in any manner reasonably calculated, under all the circumstances, to apprise the defendant of the existence and tendency of the action and to afford a reasonable opportunity to appear and defend. Summons may be served in a manner specified in this rule or by any other rule or statute on the defendant or upon an agent authorized by appointment or law to accept service of summons for the defendant. Service may be made, subject to the restrictions and requirements of this rule, by the following methods: personal service of summons upon defendant or an agent of defendant authorized to receive process; substituted service by leaving a copy of summons and complaint at a person’s dwelling house or usual place of abode; office service by leaving with a person who is apparently in charge of an office; service by mail; or, service by publication.
  • Service methods.
    1. Personal service. Personal service may be made by delivery of a true copy of the summons and a true copy of the complaint to the person to be served.
    2. Substituted service. Substituted service may be made by delivering a true copy of the summons and the complaint at the dwelling house or usual place of abode of the person to be served, to any person 14 years of age or older residing in the dwelling house or usual place of abode of the person to be served. Where substituted service is used, the plaintiff, as soon as reasonably possible, shall cause to be mailed, by first class mail, a true copy of the summons and the complaint to the defendant at defendant’s dwelling house or usual place of abode, together with a statement of the date, time, and place at which substituted service was made. For the purpose of computing any period of time prescribed or allowed by these rules or by statute, substituted service shall be complete upon such mailing.
    3. Office service. If the person to be served maintains an office for the conduct of business, office service may be made by leaving a true copy of the summons and the complaint at such office during normal working hours with the person who is apparently in charge. Where office service is used, the plaintiff, as soon as reasonably possible, shall cause to be mailed, by first class mail, a true copy of the summons and the complaint to the defendant at the defendant’s dwelling house or usual place of abode or defendant’s place of business or such other place under the circumstances that is most reasonably calculated to apprise the defendant of the existence and pendency of the action, together with a statement of the date, time, and place at which office service was made. For the purpose of computing any period of time prescribed or allowed by these rules or by statute, office service shall be complete upon such mailing.
    4. Service by Mail.
    5. Generally. When required or allowed by this rule or by statute, except as otherwise permitted, service by mail shall be made by mailing a true copy of the summons and the complaint to the defendant by first class mail and by any of the following: certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, or express mail. For purposes of this section, “first class mail” does not include certified or registered, or any other form of mail which may delay or hinder actual delivery of mail to the addressee.
    6. Calculation of time. For the purpose of computing any period of time provided by these rules or by statute, service by mail, except as otherwise provided, shall be complete on the day the defendant signs a receipt for the mailing, or three days after the mailing if mailed to an address within the state, or seven days after the mailing if mailed to an address outside of the state, whichever first occurs.
  • Particular defendants. Service may be made upon specified defendants as follows:
  • Individuals.
    1. Generally. Upon an individual defendant, by personal service upon such defendant or an agent authorized by appointment or law to receive service of summons or, if defendant personally cannot be found at defendant’s dwelling house or usual place of abode, then by substituted service or by office service upon such defendant or agent. Service may also be made upon an individual defendant to whom neither subparagraph (ii) nor (iii) of this paragraph applies by mailing made in accordance with paragraph (2)(d) of this section provided the defendant signs a receipt for the certified, registered or express mailing, in which case service shall be complete on the date on which the defendant signs a receipt for the mailing.
    2. Minors. Upon a minor under the age of 14 years, by service in the manner specified in subparagraph (i) of this paragraph upon such minor, and also upon such minor’s father, mother, conservator of the minor’s estate, or guardian, or, if there be none, then upon any person having the care or control of the minor or with whom such minor resides, or in whose service such minor is employed, or upon a guardian ad litem appointed pursuant to Rule 27 A(2).
    3. Incapacitated persons. Upon a person who is incapacitated or financially incapable, as defined by ORS 125.005, by service in the manner specified in subparagraph (i) of this paragraph upon such person, and also upon the conservator of such person’s estate or guardian, or, if there be none, upon a guardian ad litem appointed pursuant to Rule 27 B(2).
    4. Tenant of a mail agent. Upon an individual defendant who is a “tenant” of a “mail agent” within the meaning of ORS 646.221 by delivering a true copy of the summons and the complaint to any person apparently in charge of the place where the mail agent receives mail for the tenant, provided that:
      1. the plaintiff makes a diligent inquiry but cannot find the defendant; and
    5. the plaintiff, as soon as reasonably possible after delivery, causes a true copy of the summons and the complaint to be mailed by first class mail to the defendant at the address at which the mail agent receives mail for the defendant and to any other mailing address of the defendant then known to the plaintiff, together with a statement of the date, time, and place at which the plaintiff delivered the copy of the summons and the complaint. Service shall be complete on the latest date resulting from the application of subparagraph D(2)(d)(ii) of this rule to all mailings required by this subparagraph unless the defendant signs a receipt for the mailing, in which case service is complete on the day the defendant signs the receipt.
    6. Corporations and limited partnerships. Upon a domestic or foreign corporation or limited partnership:
    7. Primary service method. By personal service or office service upon a registered agent, officer, director, general partner, or managing agent of the corporation or limited partnership, or by personal service upon any clerk on duty in the office of a registered agent.
    8. Alternatives. If a registered agent, officer, director, general partner, or managing agent cannot be found in the county where the action is filed, the summons may be served: by substituted service upon such registered agent, officer, director, general partner, or managing agent; or by personal service on any clerk or agent of the corporation or limited partnership who may be found in the county where the action is filed; or by mailing a copy of the summons and complaint to the office of the registered agent or to the last registered office of the corporation or limited partnership, if any, as shown by the records on file in the office of the Secretary of State or, if the corporation or limited partnership is not authorized to transact business in this state at the time of the transaction, event, or occurrence upon which the action is based occurred, to the principal office or place of business of the corporation or limited partnership, and in any case to any address the use of which the plaintiff knows or, on the basis of reasonable inquiry, has reason to believe is most likely to result in actual notice.
    9. State. Upon the state, by personal service upon the Attorney General or by leaving a copy of the summons and complaint at the Attorney General’s office with a deputy, assistant, or clerk.
    10. Public bodies. Upon any county, incorporated city, school district, or other public corporation, commission, board or agency, by personal service or office service upon an officer, director, managing agent, or attorney thereof.
    11. General partnerships. Upon any general partnerships by personal service upon a partner or any agent authorized by appointment or law to receive service of summons for the partnership.
    12. Other unincorporated association subject to suit under a common name. Upon any other unincorporated association subject to suit under a common name by personal service upon an officer, managing agent, or agent authorized by appointment or law to receive service of summons for the unincorporated association.
    13. Vessel owners and charterers. Upon any foreign steamship owner or steamship charterer by personal service upon a vessel master in such owner’s or charterer’s employment or any agent authorized by such owner or charterer to provide services to a vessel calling at a port in the State of Oregon, or a port in the State of Washington on that portion of the Columbia River forming a common boundary with Oregon.
  • Particular actions involving motor vehicles.
    1. Actions arising out of use of roads, highways, and streets; service by mail.
    2. In any action arising out of any accident, collision, or other event giving rise to liability in which a motor vehicle may be involved while being operated upon the roads, highways, or streets of this state, if the plaintiff makes at least one attempt to serve the defendant who operated such motor vehicle, or caused it to be operated on the defendant’s behalf, by a method authorized by subsection (3) of this section except service by mail pursuant to subparagraph (3)(a)(i) of this section and, as shown by its return, did not effect service, the plaintiff may then serve that defendant by mailings made in accordance with paragraph (2)(d) of this section addressed to that defendant at: (A) any residence address provided by that defendant at the scene of the accident; (B) the current residence address, if any, of that defendant shown in the driver records of the Department of Transportation; and (C) any other address of that defendant known to the plaintiff at the time of making the mailings required by (A) and (B) that reasonably might result in actual notice to that defendant. Sufficient service pursuant to this subparagraph may be shown if the proof of service includes a true copy of the envelope in which each of the certified, registered or express mailings required by (A), (B) and (C) above was made showing that it was returned to sender as undeliverable or that the defendant did not sign the receipt. For the purpose of computing any period of time prescribed or allowed by these rules or by statute, service under this subparagraph shall be complete on the latest date on which any of the mailings required by (A), (B) and (C) above is made. If the mailing required by© is omitted because the plaintiff did not know of any address other than those specified in (A) and (B) above, the proof of service shall so certify.
    3. Any fee charged by the Department of Transportation for providing address information concerning a party served pursuant to subparagraph (i) of this paragraph may be recovered as provided in Rule 68.
    4. The requirements for obtaining an order of default against a defendant served pursuant to subparagraph (i) of this paragraph are as provided in Rule 69.
    5. Notification of change of address. Every motorist or user of the roads, highways or streets of this state who, while operating a motor vehicle upon the roads, highways, or streets of this state, is involved in any accident, collision, or other event giving rise to liability, shall forthwith notify the Department of Transportation of any change of such defendant’s address occurring within three years after such accident, collision or event.
  • Service in foreign country. When service is to be effected upon a party in a foreign country, it is also sufficient if service of summons is made in the manner prescribed by the law of the foreign country for service in that country in its courts of general jurisdiction, or as directed by the foreign authority in response to letters rogatory, or as directed by order of the court. However, in all cases such service shall be reasonably calculated to give actual notice.
  • Court order for service; service by publication.
    1. Court order for service by other method. On motion upon a showing by affidavit that service cannot be made by any method otherwise specified in these rules or other rule or statute, the court, at its discretion, may order service by any method or combination of methods which under the circumstances is most reasonably calculated to apprise the defendant of the existence and pendency of the action, including but not limited to: publication of summons; mailing without publication to a specified post office address of the defendant by first class mail and by any of the following: certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, or express mail; or posting at specified locations. If service is ordered by any manner other than publication, the court may order a time for response.
    2. Contents of published summons. In addition to the contents of a summons as described in section C of this rule, a published summons shall also contain a summary statement of the object of the complaint and the demand for relief, and the notice required in subsection C(3) shall state: “The ‘motion’ or ‘answer’ (or ‘reply’) must be given to the court clerk or administrator within 30 days of the date of first publication specified herein along with the required filing fee.” The published summons shall also contain the date of the first publication of the summons.
    3. Where published. An order for publication shall direct publication to be made in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where the action is commenced or, if there is no such newspaper, then in a newspaper to be designated as most likely to give notice to the person to be served. Such publication shall be four times in successive calendar weeks. If the plaintiff knows of a specific location other than the county where the action is commenced where publication might reasonably result in actual notice to the defendant, the plaintiff shall so state in the affidavit required by paragraph (a) of this subsection, and the court may order publication in a comparable manner at such location in addition to, or in lieu of, publication in the county where the action is commenced.
    4. Mailing summons and complaint. If the court orders service by publication and the plaintiff knows or with reasonable diligence can ascertain the defendant’s current address, the plaintiff shall mail a copy of the summons and the complaint to the defendant at such address by first class mail and by any of the following: certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, or express mail. If the plaintiff does not know and cannot upon diligent inquiry ascertain the current address of any defendant, a copy of the summons and the complaint shall be mailed by the methods specified above to the defendant at the defendant’s last known address. If the plaintiff does not know, and cannot ascertain upon diligent inquiry, the defendant’s current and last known addresses, mailing of a copy of the summons and the complaint is not required.
    5. Unknown heirs or persons. If service cannot be made by another method described in this section because defendants are unknown heirs or persons as described in sections I and J of Rule 20, the action shall proceed against the unknown heirs or persons in the same manner as against named defendants served by publication and with like effect; and any such unknown heirs or persons who have or claim any right, estate, lien, or interest in the property in controversy, at the time of the commencement of the action, and served by publication, shall be bound and concluded by the judgment in the action, if the same is in favor of the plaintiff, as effectively as if the action was brought against such defendants by name.
    6. Defending before or after judgment. A defendant against whom publication is ordered or such defendant’s representatives, on application and sufficient cause shown, at any time before judgment, shall be allowed to defend the action. A defendant against whom publication is ordered or such defendant’s representatives may, upon good cause shown and upon such terms as may be proper, be allowed to defend after judgment and within one year after entry of judgment. If the defense is successful, and the judgment or any part thereof has been collected or otherwise enforced, restitution may be ordered by the court, but the title to property sold upon execution issued on such judgment, to a purchaser in good faith, shall not be affected thereby.
    7. Defendant who cannot be served. Within the meaning of this subsection, a defendant cannot be served with summons by any method authorized by subsection D(3) of this section if:

(i) service pursuant to subparagraph (4)(a)(i) of this section is not authorized, and the plaintiff attempted service of summons by all of the methods authorized by subsection D(3) of this section and was unable to complete service, or

(ii) if the plaintiff knew that service by such methods could not be accomplished. E By whom served; compensation. A summons may be served by any competent person 18 years of age or older who is a resident of the state where service is made or of this state and is not a party to the action nor, except as provided in ORS 180.260, an officer, director, or employee of, nor attorney for, any party, corporate or otherwise. However, service pursuant to subparagraph D(2)(d)(i) of this rule may be made by an attorney for any party. Compensation to a sheriff or a sheriff’s deputy in this state who serves a summons shall be prescribed by statute or rule. If any other person serves the summons, a reasonable fee may be paid for service. This compensation shall be part of disbursements and shall be recovered as provided in Rule 68.

E. By Whom Served; Compensation.

A summons may be served by any competent person 18 years of age or older who is a resident of the state where service is made or of this state and is not a party to the action nor, except as provided in ORS 180.260, an officer, director, or employee of, nor attorney for, any party, corporate or otherwise. However, service pursuant to subparagraph D(2)(d)(i) of this rule may be made by an attorney for any party. Compensation to a sheriff or a sheriff’s deputy in this state who serves a summons shall be prescribed by statute or rule. If any other person serves the summons, a reasonable fee may be paid for service. This compensation shall be part of disbursements and shall be recovered as provided in Rule 68.

F. Return; proof of service.

  • Return of summons. The summons shall be promptly returned to the clerk with whom the complaint is filed with proof of service or mailing, or that defendant cannot be found. The summons may be returned by first class mail.
  • Proof of service. Proof of service of summons or mailing may be made as follows:
  • Service other than publication. Service other than publication shall be proved by:
    1. Certificate of service when summons not served by sheriff or deputy. If the summons is not served by a sheriff or a sheriff’s deputy, the certificate of the server indicating: the time, place, and manner of service; that the server is a competent person 18 years of age or older and a resident of the state of service or this state and is not a party to nor an officer, director, or employee of, nor attorney for any party, corporate or otherwise; and that the server knew that the person, firm, or corporation served is the identical one named in the action. If the defendant is not personally served, the server shall state in the certificate when, where, and with whom a copy of the summons and complaint was left or describe in detail the manner and circumstances of service. If the summons and complaint were mailed, the certificate may be made by the person completing the mailing or the attorney for any party and shall state the circumstances of mailing and the return receipt shall be attached.
    2. Certificate of service by sheriff or deputy. If the summons is served by a sheriff or a sheriff’s deputy, the sheriff’s or deputy’s certificate of service indicating the time, place, and manner of service, and if defendant is not personally served, when, where, and with whom the copy of the summons and complaint was left or describing in detail the manner and circumstances of service. If the summons and complaint were mailed, the certificate shall state the circumstances of mailing and the return receipt shall be attached. G Disregard of error; actual notice. Failure to comply with provisions of this rule relating to the form of summons, issuance of summons, or who may serve summons shall not affect the validity of service of summons or the existence of jurisdiction over the person if the court determines that the defendant received actual notice of the substance and pendency of the action. The court may allow amendment to a summons, or affidavit or certificate of service of summons. The court shall disregard any error in the content of summons that does not materially prejudice the substantive rights of the party against whom summons was issued. If service is made in any manner complying with subsection D(1) of this section, the court shall also disregard any error in the service of summons that does not violate the due process rights of the party against whom summons was issued.

[Amended effective January 1, 1982; January 1, 1984, January 1, 1986; January 1, 1990; January 1, 1992; January 1, 1994; September 9, 1995; January 1, 1996; January 1, 1998, January 1, 2000.]

RULE 55. SUBPOENA

A. Defined; Form.

A subpoena is a writ or order directed to a person and may require the attendance of such person at a particular time and place to testify as a witness on behalf of a particular party therein mentioned or may require such person to produce books, papers, documents, or tangible things and permit inspection thereof at a particular time and place. A subpoena requiring attendance to testify as a witness requires that the witness remain until the testimony is closed unless sooner discharged, but at the end of each day’s attendance a witness may demand of the party, or the party’s attorney, the payment of legal witness fees for the next following day and if not then paid, the witness is not obliged to remain longer in attendance. Every subpoena shall state the name of the court and the title of the action.

B. For Production of Books, Papers, Documents, or Tangible Things and to Permit Inspection. A subpoena may command the person to whom it is directed to produce and permit inspection and copying of designated books, papers, documents, or tangible things in the possession, custody or control of that person at the time and place specified therein. A command to produce books, papers, documents or tangible things and permit inspection thereof may be joined with a command to appear at trial or hearing or at deposition or, before trial, may be issued separately. A person commanded to produce and permit inspection and copying of designated books, papers, documents or tangible things but not commanded to also appear for deposition, hearing or trial may, within 14 days after service of the subpoena or before the time specified for compliance if such time is less than 14 days after service, serve upon the party or attorney designated in the subpoena written objection to inspection or copying of any or all of the designated materials. If objection is made, the party serving the subpoena shall not be entitled to inspect and copy the materials except pursuant to an order of the court in whose name the subpoena was issued. If objection has been made, the party serving the subpoena may, upon notice to the person commanded to produce, move for an order at any time to compel production. In any case, where a subpoena commands production of books, papers, documents or tangible things the court, upon motion made promptly and in any event at or before the time specified in the subpoena for compliance therewith, may (1) quash or modify the subpoena if it is unreasonable and oppressive or (2) condition denial of the motion upon the advancement by the person in whose behalf the subpoena is issued of the reasonable cost of producing the books, papers, documents, or tangible things.

C. Issuance.

  • By Whom Issued. A subpoena is issued as follows:
    1. to require attendance before a court, or at the trial of an issue therein, or upon the taking of a deposition in an action pending therein or, if separate from a subpoena commanding the attendance of a person, to produce books, papers, documents or tangible things and to permit inspection thereof:

(i) it may be issued in blank by the clerk of the court in which the action is pending, or if there is no clerk, then by a judge or justice of such court; or

(ii) it may be issued by an attorney of record of the party to the action in whose behalf the witness is required to appear, subscribed by the signature of such attorney;

  1. to require attendance before any person authorized to take the testimony of a witness in this state under Rule 38 C, or before any officer empowered by the laws of the United States to take testimony, it may be issued by the clerk of a circuit or district court in the county in which the witness is to be examined;
  2. to require attendance out of court in cases not provided for in paragraph (a) of this subsection, before a judge, justice, or other officer authorized to administer oaths or take testimony in any matter under the laws of this state, it may be issued by the judge, justice, or other officer before whom the attendance is required.
  • By Clerk In Blank. Upon request of a party or attorney, any subpoena issued by a clerk of court shall be issued in blank and delivered to the party or attorney requesting it, who shall fill it in before service.

D. Service; service on law enforcement agency; service by mail; proof of service.

  • Service. Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, a subpoena may be served by the party or any other person 18 years of age or older. The service shall be made by delivering a copy to the witness personally and giving or offering to the witness at the same time the fees to which the witness is entitled for travel to and from the place designated and, whether or not personal attendance is required, one day’s attendance fees. The service must be made so as to allow the witness a reasonable time for preparation and travel to the place of attendance. A subpoena for taking of a deposition, served upon an organization as provided in Rule 39 C(6), shall be served in the same manner as provided for service of summons in Rule 7 D(3)(b)(i), D(3)(d), D(3)(e), or D(3)(f). Copies of each subpoena commanding production of books, papers, documents or tangible things and inspection thereof before trial, not accompanied by command to appear at trial or hearing or at deposition, whether the subpoena is served personally or by mail, shall be served on each party at least seven days before the subpoena is served on the person required to produce and permit inspection, unless the court orders a shorter period. In addition, a subpoena shall not require production less than 14 days from the date of service upon the person required to produce and permit inspection, unless the court orders a shorter period.
  • Service on law enforcement agency.
    1. Every law enforcement agency shall designate individual or individuals upon whom service of subpoena may be made. At least one of the designated individuals shall be available during normal business hours. In the absence of the designated individuals, service of subpoena pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection may be made upon the officer in charge of the law enforcement agency.
    2. If a peace officer’s attendance at trial is required as a result of employment as a peace officer, a subpoena may be served on such officer by delivering a copy personally to the officer or to one of the individuals designated by the agency which employs the officer not later than 10 days prior to the date attendance is sought. A subpoena may be served in this manner only if the officer is currently employed as a peace officer and is present within the state at the time of service.
    3. When a subpoena has been served as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection, the law enforcement agency shall make a good faith effort to give actual notice to the officer whose attendance is sought of the date, time, and location of the court appearance. If the officer cannot be notified, the law enforcement agency shall promptly notify the court and a postponement or continuance may be granted to allow the officer to be personally served.
    4. As used in this subsection, “law enforcement agency” means the Oregon State Police, a county sheriff’s department, or a municipal police department.
  • Service by mail. Under the following circumstances, service of a subpoena to a witness by mail shall be of the same legal force and effect as personal service otherwise authorized by this section:
    1. The attorney certifies in connection with or upon the return of service that the attorney, or the attorney’s agent, has had personal or telephone contact with the witness, and the witness indicated a willingness to appear at trial if subpoenaed;
    2. The attorney, or the attorney’s agent, made arrangements for payment to the witness of fees and mileage satisfactory to the witness; and
    3. The subpoena was mailed to the witness more than 10 days before trial by certified mail or some other designation of mail that provides a receipt for the mail signed by the recipient, and the attorney received a return receipt signed by the witness more than three days prior to trial.
  • Service by mail; exception. Service of subpoena by mail may be used for a subpoena commanding production of books, papers, documents, or tangible things, not accompanied by a command to appear at trial or hearing or at deposition.
  • Proof of service. Proof of service of a subpoena is made in the same manner as proof of service of a summons except that the server need not certify that the server is not a party in the action, an attorney for a party in the action or an officer, director or employee of a party in the action.

E. Subpoena for Hearing or Trial; Prisoners.

If the witness is confined in a prison or jail in this state, a subpoena may be served on such person only upon leave of court, and attendance of the witness may be compelled only upon such terms as the court prescribes. The court may order temporary removal and production of the prisoner for the purpose of giving testimony or may order that testimony only be taken upon deposition at the place of confinement. The subpoena and court order shall be served upon the custodian of the prisoner.

F. Subpoena for Taking Depositions or Requiring Production of Books, Papers, Documents, or Tangible Things; Place of Production and Examination.

  • Subpoena for Taking Deposition. Proof of service of a notice to take a deposition as provided in Rules 39 C and 40 A, or of notice of subpoena to command production of books, papers, documents, or tangible things before trial as provided in subsection D(1) of this rule or a certificate that such notice will be served if the subpoena can be served, constitutes a sufficient authorization for the issuance by a clerk of court of subpoenas for the persons named or described therein.
  • Place of Examination. A resident of this state who is not a party to the action may be required by subpoena to attend an examination or to produce books, papers, documents, or tangible things only in the county wherein such person resides, is employed, or transacts business in person, or at such other convenient place as is fixed by an order of court. A nonresident of this state who is not a party to the action may be required by subpoena to attend an examination or to produce books, papers, documents, or tangible things only in the county wherein such person is served with a subpoena, or at such other convenient place as is fixed by an order of court.
  • Production Without Examination or Deposition. A party who issues a subpoena may command the person to whom it is issued, other than a hospital, to produce books, papers, documents, or tangible things by mail or otherwise, at a time and place specified in the subpoena, without commanding inspection of the originals or a deposition. In such instances the person to whom the subpoena is directed complies if the person produces copies of the specified items in the specified manner and certifies that the copies are true copies of all the items responsive to the subpoena or, if all items are not included, why they are not.

G. Disobedience of Subpoena; Refusal to Be Sworn or Answer as a Witness.

Disobedience to a subpoena or a refusal to be sworn or answer as a witness may be punished as contempt by a court before whom the action is pending or by the judge or justice issuing the subpoena. Upon hearing or trial, if the witness is a party and disobeys a subpoena or refuses to be sworn or answer as a witness, such party’s complaint, answer, or reply may be stricken.

H. Hospital Records.

  • Hospital. As used in this rule, unless the context requires otherwise, “hospital” means a health care facility defined in ORS 442.015 (14)(a) through (d) and licensed under ORS 441.015 through 441.097 and community health programs established under ORS 430.610 through 430.695
  • Mode of Compliance. Hospital records may be obtained by subpoena only as provided in this section. However, if disclosure of any requested records is restricted or otherwise limited by state or federal law, then the protected records shall not be disclosed in response to the subpoena unless the requirements of the pertinent law have been complied with and such compliance is evidenced through an appropriate court order or through execution of an appropriate consent. Absent such consent or court order, production of the requested records not so protected shall be considered production of the records responsive to the subpoena. If an appropriate consent or court order does accompany the subpoena, then production of all records requested shall be considered production of the records responsive to the subpoena.
    1. Except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, when a subpoena is served upon a custodian of hospital records in an action in which the hospital is not a party, and the subpoena requires the production of all or part of the records of the hospital relating to the care or treatment of a patient at the hospital, it is sufficient compliance therewith if a custodian delivers by mail or otherwise a true and correct copy of all the records responsive to the subpoena within five days after receipt thereof. Delivery shall be accompanied by the affidavit described in subsection (3) of this section. The copy may be photographic or microphotographic reproduction.
    2. The copy of the records shall be separately enclosed in a sealed envelope or wrapper on which the title and number of the action, name of the witness, and date of the subpoena are clearly inscribed. The sealed envelope or wrapper shall be enclosed in an outer envelope or wrapper and sealed. The outer envelope or wrapper shall be addressed as follows: (i) if the subpoena directs attendance in court, to the clerk of the court, or to the judge thereof if there is no clerk; (ii) if the subpoena directs attendance at a deposition or other hearing, to the officer administering the oath for the deposition, at the place designated in the subpoena for the taking of the deposition or at the officer’s place of business; (iii) in other cases involving a hearing, to the officer or body conducting the hearing at the official place of business; (iv) if no hearing is scheduled, to the attorney or party issuing the subpoena. If the subpoena directs delivery of the records in accordance with subparagraph H(2)(b)(iv), then a copy of the subpoena shall be served on the person whose records are sought and on all other parties to the litigation, not less than 14 days prior to service of the subpoena on the hospital.
    3. After filing and after giving reasonable notice in writing to all parties who have appeared of the time and place of inspection, the copy of the records may be inspected by any party or the attorney of record of a party in the presence of the custodian of the court files, but otherwise shall remain sealed and shall be opened only at the time of trial, deposition, or other hearing, at the direction of the judge, officer, or body conducting the proceeding. The records shall be opened in the presence of all parties who have appeared in person or by counsel at the trial, deposition, or hearing. Records which are not introduced in evidence or required as part of the record shall be returned to the custodian of hospital.
    4. For purposes of this section, the subpoena duces tecum to the custodian of the records may be served by first class mail. Service of subpoena by mail under this section shall not be subject to the requirements of subsection (3) of section D of this rule.
  • Affidavit of Custodian of Records.
    1. (a) The records described in subsection (2) of this section shall be accompanied by the affidavit of a custodian of the hospital records, stating in substance each of the following:

(i) that the affiant is a duly authorized custodian of the records and has authority to certify records;

(ii) that the copy is a true copy of all the records responsive to the subpoena;

(iii) that the records were prepared by the personnel of the hospital, staff physicians, or persons acting under the control of either, in the ordinary course of hospital business, at or near the time of the act, condition, or event described or referred to therein.

  1. If the hospital has none of the records described in the subpoena, or only part thereof, the affiant shall so state in the affidavit, and shall send only those records of which the affiant has custody.
  2. When more than one person has knowledge of the facts required to be stated in the affidavit, more than one affidavit may be made.
  • Personal Attendance of Custodian of Records May Be Required.
    1. The personal attendance of a custodian of hospital records and the production of original hospital records is required if the subpoena duces tecum contains the following statement: The personal attendance of a custodian of hospital records and the production of original records is required by this subpoena. The procedure authorized pursuant to Oregon Rule of Civil Procedure 55 H(2) shall not be deemed sufficient compliance with this subpoena.
    2. If more than one subpoena duces tecum is served on a custodian of hospital records and personal attendance is required under each pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection, the custodian shall be deemed to be the witness of the party serving the first such subpoena.
  • Tender and Payment of Fees. Nothing in this section requires the tender or payment of more than one witness and mileage fee or other charge unless there has been agreement to the contrary.

I. Medical Records.

  • Service on Patient or Health Care Recipient Required. Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, a subpoena duces tecum for medical records served on a custodian or other keeper of medical records is not valid unless proof of service of a copy of the subpoena on the patient or health care recipient, or upon the attorney for the patient or health care recipient, made in the same manner as proof of service of a summons, is attached to the subpoena served on the custodian or other keeper of medical records.
  • Manner of Service. If a patient or health care recipient is represented by an attorney, a true copy of a subpoena duces tecum for medical records of a patient or health care recipient must be served on the attorney for the patient or health care recipient not less than 14 days before the subpoena is served on a custodian or other keeper of medical records. Upon a showing of good cause, the court may shorten or lengthen the 14-day period. Service on the attorney for a patient or health care recipient under this section may be made in the manner provided by Rule 9B. If the patient or health care recipient is not represented by an attorney, service of a true copy of the subpoena must be made on the patient or health care recipient not less than 14 days before the subpoena is served on the custodian or other keeper of medical records. Upon a showing of good cause, the court may shorten or lengthen the 14-day period. Service on a patient or health care recipient under this section must be made in the manner specified by Rule 7D(3)(a) for service on individuals.
  • Affidavit of Attorney. If a true copy of a subpoena duces tecum for medical records of a patient or health care recipient cannot be served on the patient or health care recipient in the manner required by subsection (2) of this section, and the patient or health care recipient is not represented by counsel, a subpoena duces tecum for medical records served on a custodian or other keeper of medical records is valid if the attorney for the person serving the subpoena attaches to the subpoena the affidavit of the attorney attesting to the following: (a) That reasonable efforts were made to serve the copy of the subpoena on the patient or health care recipient, but that the patient or health care recipient could not be served; (b) That the party subpoenaing the records is unaware of any attorney who is representing the patient or health care recipient; and (c) That to the best knowledge of the party subpoenaing the records, the patient or health care recipient does not know that the records are being subpoenaed.
  • Application. The requirements of this section apply only to subpoenas duces tecum for patient care and health care records kept by a licensed, registered or certified health practitioner as described in ORS 18.550, a health care service contractor as defined in ORS 750.005, a home health agency licensed under ORS chapter 443 or a hospice program licensed, certified or accredited under ORS chapter 443.

[Amended effective January 1, 1982; January 1, 1984; January 1, 1988; October 3, 1989; January 1, 1990; January 1, 1992; November 4, 1993; September 9, 1995; January 1, 1996; October 4, 1997; January 1, 1998; October 23, 1999; January 1, 2000.]

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