Bring SAFE SAPCR to Your State

Proposed — not Texas law The SAFE SAPCR Act is draft legislation. It has not been introduced, has not passed either chamber, and is not in effect. Nothing on this page describes a rule a Texas court applies today.

Service of process fraud isn't just a Texas problem. Learn how to advocate for reform in your state and protect families nationwide.

Last updated: August 26, 2026

This Is a Nationwide Problem

Every state has custody cases. Every state has service of process requirements. And every state has gaps in their laws that allow bad actors to exploit the system. Parents across America are losing custody of their children through fraudulent default judgments - and most don't even know it's happening until it's too late.

Common Issues Across States

Weak Verification Requirements

Most states don't require petitioners to prove they actually tried to locate the respondent before claiming they couldn't be found.

Easy Citation by Publication

Publishing a notice in a newspaper that no one reads has become a rubber-stamp process for avoiding proper service.

Minimal Oversight

Courts often accept certificates of service at face value without independent verification.

No Accountability

Attorneys and petitioners who file false information face little to no consequences.

Difficult Appeals

Victims of fraudulent default judgments face an uphill battle to overturn these orders.

Children Suffer Most

When parents are cut out of their children's lives through fraud, the children are the ultimate victims.

Advocacy Toolkit

Use these steps to bring service of process reform to your state. The SAFE SAPCR Act can serve as a model for legislation anywhere.

1

Educate Yourself

Understand your state's current laws regarding:

  • Service of process requirements
  • Citation by publication rules
  • Default judgment procedures
  • Bill of review or motion to set aside processes
2

Document the Problem

Collect evidence of service fraud in your state:

  • Gather victim stories (with permission)
  • Research court records for patterns
  • Document cases of obvious fraud
  • Calculate costs to families and courts
3

Build a Coalition

Find allies who care about this issue:

  • Father's rights organizations
  • Family law reform advocates
  • Due process advocates
  • Bar associations (some may support reform)
4

Draft Model Legislation

Adapt the SAFE SAPCR Act for your state:

  • Download our draft legislation
  • Modify for your state's legal framework
  • Consult with local attorneys
  • Focus on key protective measures
5

Contact Legislators

Present the problem and solution:

  • Request meetings with state representatives
  • Bring victim testimonials
  • Present data and documentation
  • Offer to help draft the bill
6

Campaign for Support

Build public awareness and pressure:

  • Engage local media
  • Use social media strategically
  • Organize constituents to contact legislators
  • Testify at committee hearings

Resources for Your State

SAFE SAPCR Act (PDF)

Download the full text of our model legislation to adapt for your state.

Download

Find Your Legislators

Look up your state representatives and senators to start the conversation.

Find Now

National Conference of State Legislatures

Research family law legislation across all 50 states.

Visit NCSL

Start a Movement in Your State

Tell us about yourself and we'll connect you with resources and other advocates in your area.

Growing Nationwide

We're building a network of advocates across America. Join us in protecting families from fraudulent default judgments.

50 States Need Reform