The long-time rule has been that a new citation must be issued and served when a petition amends his or her pleadings to seek more onerous relief. But in In re: E.A., 287 S.W.3d 1 (Tex. 2009), the Texas Supreme Court held that an amended petition could be served under Tex. R. Civ. P. 21 - or in other words, by certified mail, return receipt requested. But as a a practical matter, a lawyer who does not receive a signed green card must have the opposing party personally served with amended pleadings. Doesn't everyone pick up his certified mail? Not!

Courtesy of Verner & Brumley, P.C. Dallas, Texas

Tags: service, citation