Process service
Process servers
Professionals who deliver court papers to the right person and give you proof of service for the court.
Get my summary and questionsWhen people hire one
Is this the right fit?
- You filed a case and the other party needs to be served
- Delivering a summons, subpoena, petition, or other court papers
- You need a sworn proof of service (affidavit) for the court
- Earlier attempts to deliver the papers didn't work
What they typically handle
- Delivering papers in person
- Repeat attempts at different times
- Updates on each attempt
- A signed affidavit or proof of service
Before you call
What to have ready
- The type of papers and the court they're from
- Where the person can usually be found
- Your court deadline for service
- Who should receive the proof of service
Keep sensitive details for a professional you have chosen.
On the call
Questions to ask
- Do you serve papers in this area, and are you registered or licensed where required?
- How many attempts are included, and at what times of day?
- How will you update me after each attempt?
- When will I receive the signed proof of service?
Common questions
What people often want to know.
Can Proven Ally confirm that service will be accepted?
No. Rules for valid service depend on the court and the state. A process server can explain how they deliver and document service; confirm court requirements with the court clerk or your attorney.
I've been served. Can a process server help me?
A process server's job is to deliver papers, not to give advice about them. If you have been served, read the papers carefully, note any deadline, and contact an attorney or your court's self-help center.
Get a summary to take with you.
Three quick questions, then copy or download your summary with these questions included. Ask for their license number and confirm it with your state's licensing agency before you agree to anything.