Process Serving FAQ
Straight answers to the most common questions about how process serving works, what it costs, and how long it takes.
Process serving is the formal delivery of legal documents to a person involved in a court case. It exists so that everyone named in a lawsuit is properly notified and given the chance to respond. Below are answers to the questions people ask most often.
What does a process server actually do?
A process server delivers court documents — such as summonses, complaints, subpoenas, and citations — to the named party. After delivery, the server completes a sworn document describing how, when, and where service happened. That document is what proves to the court that notice was given.
Why can't I just mail the documents myself?
Many courts require that documents be served by someone who is not a party to the case. Using a neutral third party helps prevent disputes about whether service really happened and keeps the process fair and verifiable.
How long does service take?
Routine service is often completed within a few days to a week, depending on how easy the person is to locate and how many attempts are needed. Rush service is available when a deadline is close.
What happens after someone is served?
The server prepares proof of service (often called a return of service or affidavit of service) and returns it so it can be filed with the court. The clock for the other party to respond typically starts once valid service is complete.
What if the person avoids being served?
Experienced servers make multiple attempts at different times and days. If a person actively evades service, the court may allow alternative methods. See the related article on what happens when someone cannot be served.
Related resources
Understanding Service of Process
A plain-language explanation of what “service of process” means, why it matters, and the common methods used to serve documents.
Return of Service Explained
What a return of service is, what information it contains, and why it is the document that proves service to the court.
Return of Service vs. Affidavit of Service
These two documents both prove service but are not identical. Here is how they differ and when each is used.