Judge Osteen denied my motion for a 30-day extension to serve Anna and De Santis Rentals—but then ordered exactly what I’d asked for anyway. He claimed my exhibits didn’t prove I’d tried to serve both defendants, even though I’ve documented multiple good-faith attempts, including sheriff’s returns and certified mail. Instead of outright granting the motion, he framed it as if I hadn’t met the “good cause” standard, then used his discretion to give me until August 22 to complete service. On paper, it reads like a denial, but in practice it’s an order granting the same relief—allowing him to appear strict about the rules while avoiding an immediate dismissal. This is exactly the pattern I’ve been dealing with: keeping the case alive just enough to avoid looking biased, while still casting doubt on my compliance.
