What documents are needed for an amended complaint in LASC?
In Los Angeles Superior Court, an amended complaint typically requires filing the amended complaint itself and, if you are seeking leave to amend, a noticed motion to amend with a supporting declaration that complies with California Rule of Court 3.1324.[2][4] If the amendment is only a fictitious/incorrect-name correction, the court’s civil forms include a specific Amendment to Complaint (Fictitious/Incorrect Name) form.[3]
What you generally must file
1. The amended complaint
The proposed amended pleading must be filed as a serially numbered version that can be distinguished from prior pleadings.[2][4]
California Rule of Court 3.1324 requires the proposed amended pleading to identify:
- what allegations are being deleted, with page/paragraph/line references; and
- what allegations are being added, with page/paragraph/line references.[2][4]
2. A motion for leave to amend, if required
If the amended complaint is not being filed as of right, you must file a motion to amend the pleading before trial.[2][4] The motion must include the proposed amended complaint.[2][4]
3. A supporting declaration
A separate declaration must accompany the motion and state:
- the effect of the amendment;
- why the amendment is necessary and proper;
- when the relevant facts were discovered; and
- why the amendment was not sought earlier.[2][4]
Local Los Angeles Superior Court requirement for the caption
As of the court’s General Order effective Sept. 19, 2025, an amended complaint or cross-complaint in Los Angeles Superior Court must include the name of each party in the caption of the amended pleading, rather than relying on a short-title caption with “et al.”[1]
Practical filing checklist
| Filing item | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Amended complaint | Yes | Must be serially numbered and incorporate the changes.[2][4] |
| Motion for leave to amend | Usually, if amendment is not allowed as of right | Must comply with Rule 3.1324.[2][4] |
| Supporting declaration | Yes, if moving for leave | Must explain necessity, effect, discovery date, and delay.[2][4] |
| Corrected caption listing each party | Yes in L.A. Superior Court amended pleadings | Required by the court’s general order.[1] |
| Fictitious/incorrect name amendment form | Sometimes | Used for name-correction situations; court provides CIV 105.[3] |
Bottom line
At minimum, you should expect to file the amended complaint, and if leave is needed, a motion to amend plus a supporting declaration under California Rule of Court 3.1324.[2][4] In Los Angeles Superior Court, the amended complaint’s caption should list each party by name.[1]