Sign your name and write the date in the Certificate of Service in paragraph 7. Once the plaintiff has filed their case, they will need to have the defendant served with the paperwork to notify them of the lawsuit.The officer or authorized person executing the citation must complete a return of service. A lawsuit has been filed against you. Notary Public for the State of Texas. In Texas justice courts and small claims courts, you have 14 days from the date of service to file your answer. The legal system can be very complex. This is sometimes called "service of citation" or "service of process. " It is legal notice to the other side that you have filed your case. This form and the information provided is not a substitute for the advice and services of an attorney. Commentary.