13 Mar 2024

How to Choose the Right Legal Support Company

Facing a legal situation can be overwhelming, especially when unfamiliar with the complexities of the legal system. While seeking counsel from qualified attorneys is crucial, partnering with a reliable legal support company like The Active Legal, located in San Diego, CA, can significantly enhance your legal experience.

This article equips you with valuable insights to guide you in selecting the right legal support partner for your specific needs.

Understanding Legal Support Services:

The Active Legal offers a comprehensive range of services designed to complement the work of attorneys. We specialize in:

  • Legal research and writing: Our skilled team assists lawyers with in-depth legal research, legal document drafting, and trial preparation materials.
  • Electronic discovery (eDiscovery): We manage the collection, processing, and review of large volumes of electronic data crucial for litigation, ensuring adherence to industry best practices.
  • Paralegal support: Our experienced paralegals handle administrative tasks such as case management, document filing, and client communication, freeing up valuable attorney time for strategic thinking and legal arguments.
  • Corporate legal services: San Diego businesses can benefit from our ongoing legal assistance, including contract review, compliance monitoring, and risk management.

Why Choose The Active Legal as Your San Diego Legal Support Partner?

At The Active Legal, we understand the unique needs of businesses and individuals in San Diego. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Deep Local Expertise: Our team possesses in-depth knowledge of the legal landscape specific to San Diego, ensuring our services are tailored to your local requirements.
  • Experienced Professionals: We employ a team of highly qualified legal professionals, including paralegals, legal document specialists, and eDiscovery experts, all with relevant certifications.
  • Focus on Technology and Security: We leverage cutting-edge technology to ensure efficient and secure legal support services. Our secure data storage, advanced eDiscovery capabilities, and access to comprehensive legal research databases guarantee exceptional service.
  • Open Communication and Client Focus: We prioritize clear and consistent communication. You’ll receive regular updates and have direct access to a dedicated team member to address your inquiries promptly.
  • Competitive Rates and Flexible Fee Structures: We offer competitive rates and flexible fee structures to accommodate your budget. We believe in providing cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.

Additional Tips for a Successful Partnership:

  • Clearly define your needs: Before contacting The Active Legal, clearly articulate your specific requirements and the type of support you seek.
  • Schedule a consultation: We encourage you to schedule a free consultation with our team to discuss your situation, explore our services in detail, and answer any questions you may have.
  • Request references: We are happy to provide references from past clients in San Diego who can attest to the quality of our work and our commitment to client satisfaction.
  • Review service agreements carefully: We ensure our service agreements are transparent and clearly outline the scope of services, fees, and termination clauses.

Benefits of Partnering with The Active Legal:

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Leveraging our legal support services allows businesses and individuals in San Diego to access high-quality legal assistance at a reasonable cost compared to solely relying on attorneys.
  • Increased Efficiency: By delegating routine tasks to our team, lawyers can focus on core legal strategy and client communication, leading to a more streamlined legal process.
  • Enhanced Expertise: Our team’s specialized knowledge in various legal areas provides valuable insights and support throughout the legal process, ensuring you receive the best possible representation.
  • Scalable Solutions: We understand that legal needs can evolve. The Active Legal offers scalable solutions, allowing you to adjust the level of support you require as your situation progresses.

Conclusion:

At The Active Legal, we are committed to providing exceptional legal support services to businesses and individuals in San Diego, CA. By following the tips outlined above and choosing The Active Legal as your partner, you can navigate the legal system with greater confidence and achieve a successful outcome.

08 Jan 2024

How to Save Time and Money with The Active Legal’s Legal Support Services

Running a business or navigating personal legal matters can feel like a constant battle against time and expenses. Legal issues often demand immediate attention, but finding the right resources and expertise can be a daunting task. This is where The Active Legal steps in, offering a range of legal support services designed to save you both time and money.

Freeing Up Your Time:

  • Service of Process: Forget chasing down elusive individuals for document delivery. The Active Legal’s team of professional process servers ensures swift and discreet document delivery, freeing you to focus on what truly matters.
  • Court Investigations: Uncover critical details and evidence without wasting your valuable time. The Active Legal’s skilled investigators handle all the legwork, from witness interviews to background checks, providing you with comprehensive reports to inform your strategy.
  • Legal Research and Document Preparation: Drowning in legal paperwork? Let The Active Legal’s experienced legal team shoulder the burden. They conduct thorough research, draft legal documents, and handle essential filings, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
  • E-Discovery and Document Management: Managing mountains of documents can be a time-consuming nightmare. The Active Legal’s advanced technology solutions handle e-discovery and document management seamlessly, saving you countless hours and frustration.

Saving You Money:

  • Reduced Overhead Costs: Why invest in hiring and training in-house staff when you can have access to expert legal support on demand? By outsourcing these tasks to The Active Legal, you eliminate the need for additional salaries, equipment, and software, leading to significant cost savings.
  • Flat-Fee Services: Unlike the uncertainty of hourly billable rates, The Active Legal offers transparent and predictable flat-fee pricing for most services. This allows you to budget effectively and avoid unpleasant surprises down the line.
  • Improved Efficiency: The Active Legal’s streamlined processes and efficient services minimize wasted time and rework, resulting in overall cost reduction. You get the legal support you need without unnecessary delays or additional expenses.
  • Access to Expertise: Instead of navigating complex legal issues alone, you gain access to The Active Legal’s team of experienced legal professionals. Their knowledge and guidance help you avoid costly mistakes and make informed decisions that protect your interests.

Real-World Results:

Don’t just take our word for it. Numerous businesses and individuals have experienced the time-saving and cost-reducing benefits of The Active Legal’s services.

Take Control of Your Time and Finances:

Legal matters shouldn’t have to drain your time and resources. By partnering with The Active Legal, you gain access to expert legal support services that save you both time and money. Don’t wait any longer, contact The Active Legal today for a free consultation and discover how they can help you achieve your legal goals with greater efficiency and affordability.

Remember, your time and money are valuable assets. The Active Legal helps you invest them wisely in your legal success.

03 Jul 2023

Behind the Courtroom Doors: Exploring the Art of Service of Process and Court Investigations

Behind the Courtroom Doors: Exploring the Art of Service of Process and Court Investigations

Welcome to The Active Legal, where we take you behind the closed doors of courtrooms, unveiling the art and intricacies of service of process and court investigations. As a leading provider of legal services, The Active Legal understands the critical role these processes play in the pursuit of justice. In this article, we delve into the world of service of process and court investigations, shedding light on their importance and expertise required for success.

Understanding Service of Process

Service of process is an essential step in the legal system that ensures individuals are properly notified of legal actions filed against them. Whether it’s a civil lawsuit, divorce proceedings, or any other legal matter, serving the appropriate documents is vital for upholding the principles of due process. The Active Legal’s dedicated team of process servers possesses the expertise to deliver these documents efficiently and within the confines of the law.

Behind the Scenes: The Process Server’s Role

Process servers are the unsung heroes who work diligently to ensure legal proceedings run smoothly. They embark on a complex journey to locate and serve individuals with court documents, requiring a blend of investigative skills, tactful approaches, and legal knowledge. A process server must navigate through various challenges, such as evasive defendants or inaccessible locations, while adhering to strict legal guidelines.

The Active Legal’s team of process servers is equipped with the necessary expertise and resources to tackle these challenges effectively. They are trained to remain discreet, professional, and persistent, ensuring that the documents reach their intended recipients while upholding the highest ethical standards.

Court Investigations: Unveiling the Truth

Court investigations go hand in hand with service of process, as they often require a comprehensive understanding of the case and the individuals involved. Behind the courtroom doors, a skilled investigator takes on the task of gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and uncovering crucial information that strengthens a client’s legal position.

The Active Legal’s team of experienced court investigators has honed their skills in conducting thorough investigations. They utilize advanced research techniques, access legal databases, and employ a network of resources to collect relevant evidence. From background checks to surveillance, their efforts contribute to building a strong and compelling case.

Ethics and Confidentiality

In the realm of service of process and court investigations, ethics and confidentiality are of paramount importance. The Active Legal understands the sensitive nature of these proceedings and holds the highest standards of professional conduct. Client information and case details are treated with the utmost discretion, ensuring complete confidentiality.

Collaboration with Legal Professionals

The success of service of process and court investigations relies heavily on collaboration between The Active Legal’s team and legal professionals. Attorneys, law firms, and legal departments entrust their cases to The Active Legal, knowing they will receive exceptional service and reliable support throughout the process. This collaborative approach ensures that all relevant information is shared, and strategic decisions are made based on the comprehensive understanding of each case.

We hope this article has shed light on the art of service of process and court investigations. The Active Legal’s commitment to excellence, professionalism, and adherence to legal guidelines ensures that these vital components of the legal system are executed with precision and integrity.

Whether you are an attorney seeking a reliable partner or an individual in need of legal services, The Active Legal stands ready to provide exceptional service. From meticulous process serving to comprehensive court investigations, The Active Legal is dedicated to serving justice and upholding the principles of the legal system. Trust us to be your steadfast partner throughout your legal journey.

28 Feb 2023

How Legal Courier Services Can Help Law Firms Save Time and Money

Law firms deal with an enormous amount of paperwork every day. From client files to legal documents, there is no shortage of paperwork to be delivered, signed, and filed. With this in mind, legal courier services can be a lifesaver for law firms looking to save time and money.

One of the most significant ways that legal courier services can help law firms is by reducing the time and resources spent on document delivery. Without a courier service, law firms are often left with the burden of delivering documents themselves or relying on traditional mail services. These methods can be time-consuming and unreliable, especially when it comes to time-sensitive legal documents.

Legal courier services offer same-day or next-day delivery options, ensuring that documents are delivered promptly and efficiently. This means that law firms can focus on other important tasks, such as case management and client meetings, instead of spending time delivering documents themselves.

In addition to saving time, legal courier services can also save law firms money. By outsourcing document delivery to a professional courier service, law firms can eliminate the need for a dedicated in-house delivery person or vehicle. This can result in significant cost savings for the law firm, including reduced vehicle maintenance and fuel costs.

Legal courier services can also save law firms money by reducing the risk of document loss or damage. Professional courier services use secure methods to transport legal documents, including GPS tracking and tamper-evident packaging. This provides an extra layer of security for sensitive documents, reducing the risk of lost or damaged documents that can result in costly legal disputes.

Finally, legal courier services can help law firms maintain their professional image. With prompt and efficient document delivery, law firms can build a reputation for reliability and professionalism. This can be especially important in the legal industry, where reputation and trust are paramount.

Legal courier services can be a valuable resource for law firms looking to save time and money. By outsourcing document delivery to a professional courier service, law firms can focus on other important tasks, reduce costs, and improve their professional image. Whether it’s delivering time-sensitive legal documents or managing regular document deliveries, legal courier services can provide an efficient and cost-effective solution for law firms of all sizes.

15 Nov 2022

How to serve someone who is avoiding service?

In California, a person is served when they officially receive the papers.
But what happens if you are unable to serve the documents because the other party is avoiding you or avoiding being served?

It’s highly recommended that you hire a process server, this is a professional who is qualified and experienced with the legal procedures for serving court documents. Read more below to learn more about a server of the process.

If a copy of the legal papers can’t be delivered to the named defendant,
a summons may be served by leaving a copy with a competent person in the household, place of work, or business – even if they are not a party to the action.

Sometimes, a defendant will try to evade service of process. The purpose of service of process is to notify the defendant of the lawsuit. A defendant may not legally evade the process. Doing so will not stop the lawsuit from progressing. In that case, the plaintiff’s process server may leave the documents in a place where the defendant is likely to obtain them easily.

If a person is not at home, or evades service, the process server may leave a copy of the papers at the person’s home with someone else living there who is at least 15 years old. The age requirement is in place to ensure that the person accepting the papers on behalf of the person to be served will ensure that the papers get to the person who is to be served. A process server must explain what the documents are when leaving them with a person other than the defendant.

A process server may not leave the papers on the front porch or slip them into a mail slot at the residence. A process server may not serve a defendant with papers on a Sunday. Doing so will invalidate the service of process.

What Happens If the Defendant Cannot be Found?

Most states require the defendant to receive court documents in person and provide proof so that there is no doubt about whether or not the defendant was properly served. An unscrupulous person who does not want to face their responsibilities and legal services as stated by the laws, on the other hand, may go into hiding to evade skip tracing and the process service. There are a few choices of process service of a process server that cannot be able to serve the legal documents:

Service by publication is allowed in cases where the defendant cannot be located. A plaintiff seeking to serve a defendant in this manner must make good faith attempts to locate and serve the defendant before a court will allow a process server to serve a defendant in this manner.

Service by process is serving a defendant by publishing a notice in a publication such as a newspaper in a location where the defendant is likely to see it. It could be the newspaper located in the town where the defendant lives. Only certain types of defendants may be served this way. Again, the rules for service of process by publication are strictly construed by courts. Bring any questions you may have regarding personal service to an attorney whom you trust.

Process Servers’ Due Diligence

The process server must first demonstrate that they attempted to serve the documents in person and failed. They must show that they have exhausted all other options for locating the defendant and that any other means of notification should only be used as a last resort. Professional process servers are essential to have on hand because they will know how to show the court that they tried their hardest to accomplish their duty.

06 Sep 2022

Frequently Asked Questions About Serving Court Documents

Reasons for being served papers?

A process server would only serve you documents because someone is suing you or you are a party in a legal proceeding.

This could be because of any of the following reasons:

  • A divorce
  • Child support
  • Small claims matter
  • Cease and desist letter
  • Request for payment
  • Or any other legal matter.

The process server’s job is to find you and serve you the legal documents, giving you notice of the legal action.

What happens if you never get served court papers?

It would be best if you didn’t try to avoid being served court papers purposely. 

If you don’t receive the court documents, or you don’t get them on time, you won’t be able to file an Answer by the deadline. As a result, The plaintiff will ask the court for a default judgment.

Can someone else accept served papers?

Papers must be “served” on any other person who is involved in the law suit or who the law requires get the papers. Many states require that this person be approved by the court.
After the papers are served, a Proof of Service form must be filled out and signed by the person who served the papers. The Proof of Service form must be filed with the court.

How to serve someone who is avoiding service?

In California, a person is served when they officially receive the papers.
But what happens if you are unable to serve the documents because the other party is avoiding you or avoiding being served?

It’s highly recommended that you hire a process server, this is a professional who is qualified and experienced with the legal procedures for serving court documents. Read more below to learn more about a server of the process.

If a copy of the legal papers can’t be delivered to the named defendant,
a summons may be served by leaving a copy with a competent person in the household, place of work, or business – even if they are not a party to the action.

Can you refuse to be served papers?

No, in California, a person cannot refuse to accept service. If he avoids the process server altogether, he/she is risking the court may enter a default judgment.

What’s is a process server?

A service of process, or simply known as process service, is a legal procedure in the United States, which declares all parties must be notified when facing legal action against them in a court of law or an administrative court. Process service is accomplished through the delivery of a set or series of documents describing the legal action. Examples of documents that comprise service of process include summonses, complaints, subpoenas , writs, and other court documents. These documents are delivered to the individual whom the legal action is directed by a process server. Service of process must be served by an individual who is not a party to the case.

The Active Legal is an experienced process server in San Diego, and North County. We are committed to our clients by offering an array of legal services in a fast, accurate, and efficient manner.

02 Jun 2022

Process Server San Diego

The Active Legal provides legal services in San Diego, and North County. We are committed to our clients by offering an array of legal services in a fast, accurate, and efficient manner. The Active Legal will take on your service of process request and work with efficiency and professionalism to ensure prompt and stress-free service of all documents. All of our services are provided with a meticulous attention to detail. We are committed to keep you informed on the status of your orders, letting you know of all attempts, when it was served or if there are any problems we may encounter.

What is Service of Process?

A service of process, or simply known as process service, is a legal procedure in the United States, which declares all parties must be notified when facing legal action against them in a court of law or an administrative court. Process service is accomplished through the delivery of a set or series of documents describing the legal action. Examples of documents that comprise service of process include summonses, complaints, subpoenas , writs, and other court documents. These documents are delivered to the individual whom the legal action is directed by a process server. Service of process must be served by an individual who is not a party to the case.

How to Serve Legal Documents?

When service of process was first instituted, sheriffs or deputies, and agents of the court performed this important aspect of due process. This became a burden on law enforcement, so the legislation changed. Now, in many states, any US citizen that is not a party to the case, over the age of 18, and residing in the state where the matter is to be tried in court can serve papers.
Keep in mind that process serving laws differ from state to state and may change. Some states require that process server be licensed, some require registration with the county and in some states, they are required to post a surety bond.
In general, there are several requirements and constraints associated with the rules of service of process. In some states, you cannot serve on Sundays or holidays. Some places do not allow process service on a person traveling to court. It is also very important to note that papers cannot be served by someone involved in the case or legal proceeding.

Why Hire a Process Server in San Diego?

If a serve is not done in accordance with these rules, and other rules determined by your state, it can hinder your case from going forward or result in the dismissal of your case. Improper service also delays the obtainment of evidence, which can cause injunctions, court fees, and attorney’s fees.

As a process server, our company will serve your legal documents and, once completed, file an affidavit of service with the appropriate court. We serve all types of legal documents such as eviction notices, personal protection orders, divorce papers, custody papers, landlord/tenant, subpoenas, garnishments, order to show cause, and more.

E-Filing

More and more courts are switching from in-person filings to online electronic filings. We will electronically file your affidavits and other documents (when applicable) into the correct court, saving you time and stress.

09 Feb 2022

6 Tips to help you get a friendly divorce

I can’t stand it anymore! I’m getting divorced! Before reaching this decision and starting the divorce proceedings, it is crucial to reflect on the reasons why you want a divorce. Sometimes, couples therapy helps to avoid marital breakdowns.

1. Focus on the present and future, without looking for blame

While you are having a bad time, it is challenging to think about today and tomorrow, especially if the breakup has been traumatic. However, continually stirring up the past and looking for blame for the divorce does not lead to anything. It does not provide a constructive solution to the problem.

2. Give in sometimes so that you can gain peace of mind

To have a divorce without problems, you have to know how to give in and be clear that not all battles are going to be won. For this reason, you have to prioritize and fight only the essential battles.

3. Mutual agreement divorce: it is always the best option

Getting a divorce by mutual agreement is the best option. This favors a climate of dialogue and makes it easy and quick to divorce. Even more so in the event that there are children, since a more favorable environment is created and, in addition, it allows the new situation to be assumed better and more quickly.

4. Take a realistic look at your financial situation

The separation and distribution of assets is always a sensitive issue in case of separation. Therefore, it is very convenient to make a detailed and realistic list with all the shared finances (accounts, debts, etc.), as well as the economic needs that will be had later.

5. Have all the documentation in order

A divorce process requires several procedures, which implies having many documents in order. When more “paperwork” is arranged, the work of the lawyers who are in charge of the process will be easier.

8. Use good professionals: lawyers, mediators, and a service of process company

For the divorce to be a success, it is important to surround yourself with competent and prepared professionals. You have to listen to them, let yourself be guided by them -they are not emotionally involved and can see the situation more clearly- and not generate false expectations. Consider divorce mediation, the work of the mediators is also very important. They always try to make the two parties win without there being a loser.

Contact The Active Legal today to get help with filing and servign the divorce papers. While getting a divorce is one of the most challengin situations in your life. We have years of service of process experience in San Diego and are ready to serve your needs.

01 Nov 2021

How to serve legal documents in California?

What Is Service?

The law says that when you sue a person, partnership, corporation, or the government, you must give formal notice to the other side that you have started the legal process. In the same way, when you are already involved in a case and file papers with the court, you are required to give the other side notice of the paperwork you have filed. The legal way to give formal notice is to have the other side “served” with a copy of the paperwork that you have filed with the court.

“Service of court papers” means that the other side must get copies of any paper you file with the court.  In “service” a third person (NOT you) is the one who actually delivers the paperwork to the other side.  The person who does this is called the “server” or “process server.”

Personal Service
“Personal service” means that someone – NOT a party to the case – must personally deliver the court documents to the other side.

In “personal service”:

  • The server gives the papers to the party being served. It can be at the party’s home, work, or anywhere on the street.
  • The server has to identify the party being served and hand the legal papers to him or her and inform him or her that they are court papers.
    • If the party being served does not want to take the papers, they can be left on the ground in front of him or her.  If he or she takes the papers and tears them up or throws them away, service is still considered to be valid. The person being served does not have to sign anything.
  • The server then fills out a proof of service, detailing when, where, and how (in person) the papers were served. The server signs the proof of service and returns it to you to file in court.
  • Personal service is complete the day the papers are served.

“Personal service” is the most reliable type of service because the court knows for sure that the person being served got the papers and, if necessary, can question the process server about the “service.”

Since it is the most reliable, “personal service” is valid in all types of case.  Also because it is so reliable, it is generally required when serving the first papers (the petition or complaint) in a case.

Serving Court Documents

Serving papers on another person is an official handing over of documents. Papers must be “served” on any other person who is involved in the law suit or who the law requires get the papers.

This lets the person(s) in the case know what you are telling the court and what you are asking the court to do.

If the papers are not served in the correct way at the correct time, the court cannot go forward with the case.

A person is served when they officially receive the papers.

Papers which start an action (Summons, Petition, Request for Order, etc.) must be filed first and then served on the other person(s).

After the papers are served, a Proof of Service form must be filled out and signed by the person who served the papers. The Proof of Service form must be filed with the court.

Using The Active Legal to serve legal documents is easy. Start by getting informed with some of the most common questions regarding Service of Process, or call us today to hire a professional server of process in San Diego.

03 Nov 2020

San Diego California Registered Process Server

It is our commitment to provide the best service, The Active Legal is recognized as of the top registered Process Server in San Diego due to our dedication and unmatched services that we provide across San Diego county.

There are many benefits for yourself when you hire a Professional Registered Process Server in San Diego, California. Give us the opportunity to show how fast and efficient we can be. It only takes a phone call or an email to get started for your personalized full-service legal support. When you are looking for self-representation and need a process server look no further! We want your business, The Active Legal team provides a broad spectrum of comprehensive legal support services at an unparalleled level of quality.

Our goal is to help attorneys and individuals save time and money by providing an affortable and efficient service of process and court filings among many other legal support services at the lowest possible rate.

Some examples of legal documents where you may use The Active Legal professional process servers are:

  • Summons & Complaints
  • Record & Personal Subpoenas
  • Small Claims Cases
  • Restraining Orders
  • Writs – Bank Levies
  • Notices to pay or Quit
  • Wage Attachments
  • Cross-complaints – Evictions
  • Pleadings – Motions
  • Correspondence – Discovery
  • Order for Appearance and Examination

Additional Services that we offer:

  • Daily Court Filing Service
  • Rush Court Filing Services
  • Court research Services
  • Messenger Service
  • Skip Tracing & Stake Outs