In litigation, serving and properly executing an out-of-state subpoena can be one of the most challenging steps of legal proceedings. Gathering information from companies outside your jurisdiction poses great difficulties because there is no physical presence within the state that can comply with the request.
The Challenge of Getting Records From Google
One common hurdle attorneys face is getting in touch with Google, which often requires special permission to obtain documents or records about individuals or companies. Serving an out-of-state subpoena on Google can be challenging, but it’s essential for attorneys and litigants who need information about a case they are pursuing.
Whether the data is being accessed as part of discovery or uncovering evidence regarding potential fraud, there are numerous reasons why you might need to serve Google with an out-of-state subpoena.
Google LLC requires the user of a valid legal process to request the disclosure of account records. Out-of-state subpoenas are an acceptable form of the legal process. However, Google has specific rules.
Your Guide to Serving Out-of-State or Foreign Subpoenas on Google LLC
For the subpoena to be considered valid by Google LLC, it must include certain information as set out in its guidelines. It must contain your name and contact information, along with a description of the data requested and why it is needed.
The subpoena must also specify any other conditions that apply to its services, such as whether you consent to waive service fees or delivery instructions (if applicable).
To serve an out-of-state subpoena on Google LLC, you must take the following steps:
- Send your subpoena to the address on Google’s Legal Process Guidelines page.
- Include a copy of your valid form of identification, your request, and proof that you have authority in this matter (such as a court order or court filing).
- If service fees apply, include payment for those fees either by check or money order made out to “Google LLC.”
- Google will not honor any requests via email or fax—the request must be served in person.
- Once the subpoena is received and accepted, Google will respond within the timeframe specified by law or stated in their guidelines.
Civil Requests Within the U.S.
Google LLC accepts civil requests for user data from the Santa Clara Superior Court, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, or out-of-state legal processes properly domesticated through a California court.
You can serve your civil request through Google LLC’s registered service agent, Corporation Service Company (CSC) at the following address:
Corporation Service Company
2710 Gateway Oaks Drive, Suite 150N
Sacramento, CA 95833
Civil Requests From Outside the U.S.
For requests from outside the country, Google LLC is located at the following address:
Google LLC
c/o Custodian of Records
1600 Amphitheatre Parkway
Mountain View, California 94043
United States of America
It’s best to provide an email address to which Google can respond to avoid delays.
Civil Requests for User Data Within the EEA and/or Switzerland
Google Ireland Limited is responsible for user data for most of Google’s consumer services in the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland. You can reach their office at:
Google Ireland Limited
c/o Custodian of Records
Gordon House
Barrow Street
Dublin 4
Ireland
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