Five Frequently Asked Questions about Process Serving

Are you getting started with the legal process but need guidance and reassurance that you are doing the right thing?  Filing a claim against another individual can be difficult, especially for those that have never dealt with any legal matters before.  You may hear terms that you've never heard before, like process server.  If you've never heard of a process server in Orlando, you will need to familiarize yourself with their role in your legal process soon.  A process server is the individual that will serve your court documents to the defendant in your case.  They are required by law to perform this duty.  There are a few frequently asked questions that can help you better understand process serving and the role it plays in your process.

What is process serving?

This is a legal process in the United States that is required to communicate all parties involved in the legal process of their roles, responsibilities, and duties.  This is typically what is referred to as "serving" court documents and officially initiating the process.  These documents are summons, complaints, subpoenas, writs, and other court paperwork.  

Who serves these papers?

Initially, this process was required to be performed by law enforcement officers, but because of the burden this placed on their job responsibilities, things have changed.  Now, any citizen over the age of 18 that is unrelated to the case is capable of serving court documents.  Often times, however, people will hire a process server in Orlando to perform these jobs.  These individuals are trained to locate and serve papers properly.

Will a process server file papers with the courts?

Often times, the process server will deliver and file the papers you need them to.  They offer a range of legal services, including document filing in person or e-filing to provide you with whatever you need to initiate your legal process.

What is an Affidavit of Service?

After your process server completes the court document services that they have agreed to perform, they will sign an Affidavit of Service that states when, where, and who was served.  This information will also be filed with your court so that the process can move forward.

Can I serve my own papers?

Unfortunately, you cannot serve your own papers.  Anyone who is related to the case will not be allowed to perform this service, as it provides a conflict of interest.  Although it is recommended that you hire a professional to perform this service, some states even require it.

These are some of the most frequently asked questions about process serving that can help acquaint you with their service.  If you are looking for a quality process server in Orlando, you'll want to work with the individuals at Florida Process Serving.  Contact us to hear about our quality process serving services and serve your defendant their papers today.