CA AB2961

Deletes automatic electronic service based on party consent and instead authorizes courts to order mandatory electronic service on represented parties, who must accept electronic service of documents that may be served by mail, express mail, overnight delivery, or facsimile transmission.

Allows unrepresented persons in civil actions to consent to electronic service through express consent methods, including serving a notice on all parties or manifesting affirmative consent through electronic means with the court or filing service provider.

Requires courts on and after July 1, 2024 to electronically transmit documents they are required to serve to persons subject to mandatory electronic service or who consented to electronic service, with the same legal effect as service by mail.

Expands fee waivers for electronic filing to include waiving fees charged to a party's attorney if the party has been granted a fee waiver, is indigent, or is being represented by the public defender or court-appointed counsel.

Makes conforming changes to Government Code Section 915.2 and Penal Code Section 690.5 to allow electronic service and proof of electronic service in claims against public entities and criminal cases, respectively.