Process servers are a key part of our legal system, but if you’ve never met one before, it’s hard to know what they do. We break down the process and explore how process servers can make all the difference in your legal matters!
What are Process Servers?
Process servers play an important role in our legal system by ensuring that individuals are properly notified of court proceedings that may affect them. In simple terms, process servers hand deliver legal documents to the people involved in a case.
This includes everything from divorce papers and small claims notices to eviction notices and summonses. Process servers typically work for law firms, but can also be hired by private individuals.
The job of a process server is not always easy. Oftentimes, people do not want to be served with legal documents and will go out of their way to avoid being served. This can include hiding at their home or place of work or even leaving town altogether.
Process server Tulsa OKC must be persistent in order to do their job properly. They must also be aware of the rules and regulations governing the service of process in their jurisdiction. Failure to follow these rules could result in the papers being thrown out of court, which would defeat the purpose of serving them in the first place.
If you have been served with legal papers, it is important to understand what they mean and what you are being asked to do. You should also contact an attorney to discuss your options and ensure that you are taking the proper steps in response to the papers
Types of Process Service
Process servers are tasked with delivering important documents to individuals involved in legal proceedings. This can include court summons, subpoenas, and other types of legal notices. Process servers must be impartial and cannot take sides in the matter they are serving papers for.
There are generally two types of process service: direct service and substituted service. Direct service means that the process server will hand-deliver the documents to the individual in question. This is the most common type of process service and is often used when the individual being served papers is cooperative. Substituted service occurs when the process server is unable to directly serve the papers to the individual, usually because they are avoiding service or cannot be located. In this case, the process server will leave the papers with someone of a similar age and gender as the individual being served, usually at their home or place of work.
Who Can Serve Court Documents?
There are many people who can serve court documents, but the most common type of process server is a professional. Professional process servers are usually licensed by the state in which they operate and have undergone training to learn the best methods for serving papers. Some states require that process servers be bonded, meaning that they have insurance in case they are sued for wrongful service.
Handing over the Documents
When you process service, you are essentially hand-delivering court documents to the individual or business named on the paperwork. This can be anything from a summons to an eviction notice. The documents will have specific instructions on what the recipient needs to do, such as appearing in court on a certain date or vacating property by a certain date.
As a process server, it is your job to deliver these documents in a timely and professional manner. This usually involves tracking down the recipient and serving them the papers in person. In some cases, you may need to serve papers to multiple individuals associated with a case.
Serving papers can be tricky business, so it’s important that you know what you’re doing. There are strict rules and regulations that must be followed in order for the papers to be considered properly served. If you don’t follow the rules, you could end up delaying the case or even getting yourself into trouble.
If you’re thinking of becoming a process server, or if you’ve been assigned to serve papers for a case, it’s important that you understand what is expected of you. With a little research and preparation, you can ensure that the papers are properly served and that the case can move forward
Filing Proof of Service
When you hire a process server, you’re not just paying for someone to serve papers. You’re also paying for them to file a “Proof of Service” with the court.
The Proof of Service is a document that proves that the person being served was actually served. It includes the date and time of service, how the papers were served (in hand, by certified mail, etc.), and the name and signature of the process server.
The Proof of Service is important because it shows the court that you’ve done everything possible to notify the other person about the lawsuit. If they choose not to show up to court, it’s not your fault.
Make sure you ask your process server if they charge extra for filing the Proof of Service. Some do and some don’t, so it’s best to find out upfront.
Conclusion
Process servers play an important role in the legal system, serving as the link between the court and those who are being served with legal documents. While the job may not be glamorous, it is essential in ensuring that everyone has their day in court. If you’re interested in a career in law or simply want to help others, becoming a process server might be right for you.
