2009 California Probate Code - Section 1240-1242 :: Chapter 5. Citations

1240.  Where use of a citation is authorized or required by statute,
a citation may be issued by the court clerk on the application of
any party, without a court order, except in cases where an order is
expressly required by law.

1241.  The citation shall be directed to the person to be cited,
signed by the court clerk, and issued under the seal of the court.
The citation shall contain the title of the proceeding, a brief
statement of the nature of the proceeding, and a direction that the
person cited appear at a time and place specified.

1242.  The citation shall be served on the person cited in the
manner provided in Chapter 4 (commencing with Section 413.10) of
Title 5 of Part 2 of the Code of Civil Procedure. Except as otherwise
provided by statute, the citation shall be served at least five days
before its return day.