Here at Accurate Serve® of Jacksonville, Jacksonville’s premier private process service agency, we understand the importance of serving legal documents in a timely and accurate manner. Whether you’re a lawyer, a private individual, or a business owner, you will probably need the services of a process server at some point in your life. In our guide below, we’ll provide you with an overview of the types of papers that can be served by process servers.
Summons and Complaint
A summons and complaint is a legal document that initiates a civil lawsuit, like a small claims court matter. The plaintiff (the person who files the lawsuit) must serve the defendant (the person being sued) with a copy of the summons and complaint. The process server’s role is to deliver these documents to the defendant in a timely manner, ensuring that they are aware of the lawsuit and the need to respond.
Subpoenas
A subpoena is issued when a person needs to appear in court or provide testimony or documents to the court. There are two types of subpoenas: subpoena ad testificandum (to testify) and subpoena duces tecum (to produce documents). Most subpoenas are issued as a result of criminal cases, but occasionally a subpoena will be issued in a civil manner.
Eviction Notices
An eviction notice is something that no tenant wants to receive but is sometimes necessary for various reasons Tensions can run high when serving notification of eviction proceedings, but an experienced process server can do so with tact and professionalism.
Divorce Papers
Divorce papers are another type of service where emotions run high. Sometimes people are even caught off guard by the initiation of divorce proceedings, making the service even more difficult. Special discretion is required in these matters.
Child Custody Papers
Child custody papers are often expected as part of a divorce proceeding, but can still be upsetting to the recipient. It’s important to never serve child custody paperwork while any children are present, and the server should also make sure that the petitioner is not present when service is made.
Garnishments
A garnishment is a legal order that requires an employer to withhold a portion of an employee’s wages to pay off a debt as ordered by a court. Garnishments are served to the employer, and then they pass the information along to the employee being garnished. This makes garnishments a fairly easy service.
We Can Help With All Your Service of Process Needs in Jacksonville
A process server is a vital part of the legal system, ensuring that legal documents are delivered in a timely and accurate manner. Understanding the different types of papers served by process servers can help you navigate the legal process more effectively. If you need the services of a process server in Duval County, don’t hesitate to contact Accurate Serve® of Jacksonville at 904-735-7810 or send us a work request online.
