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.