Questions Frequently Asked About Process Serving
At Accurate Serve in Port St. Lucie, we know that the realm of legal procedures can be a maze of confusion for many. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of frequently asked questions about process serving to help demystify the subject.
What Exactly is Process Serving?
Process serving is the formal act of delivering legal papers to individuals or organizations involved in a court case. This ensures that everyone is officially informed about legal actions being taken against them.
What Types of Documents Can Be Served?
From subpoenas and summonses to complaints and court orders, process servers handle a broad spectrum of legal documents.
Who is Eligible to Serve Legal Papers?
In the state of Florida, process servers must be certified or appointed by a court. This involves meeting basic requirements set forth by Florida law which demonstrate that the server is well-versed in the correct procedures for delivering these documents.
How Does the Process Serving Procedure Work?
The first step is to obtain the relevant legal documents from the court. Once acquired, the process server will make efforts to hand them over to the named individual or organization. If the recipient is elusive, alternative methods like leaving the papers with a family member or publishing a notice in the local newspaper may be used.
Are There Time Restrictions for Serving Legal Papers?
In Florida, process may be served on any date and at any time except for Sundays.
How Long Does the Process Take?
The time frame for serving legal documents can fluctuate based on several variables such as the recipient’s location, the intricacy of the case, and the method used for service. It could range from a few days to several weeks. Most cases in Florida require that the process be served within 120 days from the date of filing.
What Happens After the Documents Are Served?
Once the papers are successfully served, the recipient usually has a set period to respond. Once the defendant responds, the parties will have their day in court.
Do Process Servers Locate Hard-to-Find Individuals?
Yes, process servers are adept at tracking down individuals who are challenging to locate. They employ various techniques, including skip traces and diligent searches, as well as on-the-ground investigations.
What is the Cost of Process Serving?
The cost is not fixed and can vary based on factors like the recipient’s location, the complexity of the case, and the method of service. It’s advisable to discuss the fees with your process server beforehand.
Is Hiring a Process Server Necessary?
If you’re embroiled in a legal matter requiring the delivery of legal documents, it’s crucial to employ a professional process server. All process servers in Florida must be properly trained, certified, or otherwise approved.
Want to Know More?
If you have additional questions or require assistance with process serving on the Treasure Coast, feel free to reach out to us at 772-236-7214 or send us a work request online. Our team of seasoned process servers is ready to assist you with all your process service, document retrieval, skip tracing, and diligent search requirements.