Notice of motion and supporting papers (16 court days)
Most California motions must be served and filed at least 16 court days before the hearing, with extra time added for the service method. Enter the hearing date to count back.
- CCP 1005(b)
- CCP 1010.6
- CCP 12c
Find your filing date
Noticed motions under CCP 1005.
The hearing day is not counted.
Holidays and court closures
California judicial holidays under CCP 135 are always skipped, including Lincoln's Birthday, Cesar Chavez Day and Native American Day.
For weather or emergency closures. Check the court's notice to confirm it extends deadlines.
How the deadline is counted
- Start from the hearing date. It is not counted.
- Count back 16 court days. Weekends and court holidays are skipped.
- Add time for the service method, counting backward. Mail adds 5, 10 or 20 calendar days, fax or overnight delivery adds 2 calendar days, and electronic service adds 2 court days.
- Do not land on a closed day. If calendar-day counting ends on a weekend or holiday, move earlier to the last court day.
Worked examples
| Example | Hearing | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Personal service | Tue, Dec 15, 2026 | Thu, Nov 19, 2026 |
| Electronic service | Tue, Dec 15, 2026 | Tue, Nov 17, 2026 |
| Mail within California | Tue, Dec 15, 2026 | Fri, Nov 13, 2026 |
Opposition and reply
Opposition papers are due at least 9 court days before the hearing and reply papers at least 5 court days before. CCP 1013 does not extend those dates, and opposition and reply must be served for delivery by the next business day. Summary judgment motions follow CCP 437c instead.
Common questions
How many days before a hearing must a California motion be filed?
At least 16 court days before the hearing under CCP 1005(b), plus extra days for the service method.
Do court holidays count?
No. Court days exclude weekends and court holidays.
Does this apply to summary judgment?
No. Summary judgment motions have their own longer notice period under CCP 437c.
Sources
- Code of Civil Procedure, section 1005
- Code of Civil Procedure, section 1010.6
- Code of Civil Procedure, sections 12 to 12c
Rules last checked October 2026. This calculator does not give legal advice. Confirm the date against the rule and any order in your case.