AB 2042: Civil actions: setting aside default or default judgment.

This bill aims to clarify the process for setting aside default or default judgments in civil actions. A defendant who did not receive actual notice of the action may now file a motion to set aside and for leave to defend even if the service of the summons was lawfully effected. The bill also makes nonsubstantive changes to the existing provision for serving a summons in civil actions. Starting January 1, 2027, the proof of service of a summons must include a photograph of the site of the attempted service and GPS coordinates indicating the date, time, and location of service. In addition, the bill clarifies that the existing provisions for setting aside default or default judgments and moving for dismissal apply to any proof of service filed on or after January 1, 2027.