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California motion for new trial deadline

Quick answer

In California, you generally must serve notice of intent to move for a new trial within 15 days after service of notice of entry of judgment (Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 659(a)(2)).

Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 659(a)(2)
AI-assisted — California rules pending attorney verification; confirm against the cited rule.
AI-assisted — verify independently. California deadline rules here are AI-generated and pending attorney review. Confirm against the cited rule and your local court before relying on this.
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Estimates based on standard California rules and court-holiday closures; not legal advice. Confirm against your specific case, local administrative orders, and the current rules.

How the deadline works

Under Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 659(a)(2), the notice of intention to move for new trial is due within 15 days after service of notice of entry of judgment. Or 180 days after entry, whichever is earliest; this deadline is not extended by mail service or by stipulation. A deadline landing on a weekend or court holiday moves to the next business day.

Questions

How long do I have to serve notice of intent to move for a new trial in California?
Generally 15 days after service of notice of entry of judgment, under Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 659(a)(2). This deadline is treated as jurisdictional — calendar it conservatively.