Despite the tumultuous and unpredictable nature of their job, Process Servers are crucial to our justice system. They are the men and women who make contact with people in need of legal action, delivering legal documents such as summons, subpoenas, and warrants. In their work, they often face hostile reactions and must exercise the utmost discretion and skill to do their jobs properly.
A successful Process Server is a dedicated individual with an entrepreneurial spirit and the desire to connect with people. They work independently, have a flexible schedule, and take pride in their work.
It’s also important for a Process Server to build a strong professional network. By establishing relationships with other process servers, lawyers, and industry experts, they can gain valuable resources to enhance their business practices. Additionally, building a network can help process servers stay abreast of new industry trends and developments and offer helpful referrals to clients.
When an individual evades service, it can become a game of cat and mouse between the process server and the subject of the case. Defendants often go to great lengths to avoid being served, including hiding out of their homes or refusing to open their doors when approached. During this time, it’s the process server’s duty to get creative and think laterally. Occasionally, they may even need to stake out locations where the defendant is known to visit.
As a result, it’s not uncommon for process servers to spend much of their working hours on the road. This can include driving to public places such as libraries, coffee shops, and outside courthouses in order to locate individuals. In addition, they must also travel across town or even between states in order to serve the proper parties.
It is also a process server’s responsibility to follow all state regulations regarding training, certification, age, and other aspects of the profession. They must also regularly update their practice, as new laws are introduced on a regular basis. This is why it’s critical for process servers to seek out education, training, and support from their peers and other legal professionals.
Finally, it’s a process server’s obligation to provide accurate proof of service to their client. A good vendor will use technology that allows for digital tracking, verification, and acknowledgment of service. This eliminates errors and reduces the need for paperwork and allows process servers to serve more efficiently.
In addition, a quality process server will use a portal that enables them to communicate with their clients in real-time. This will prevent miscommunication, delays, and costly mistakes. A national process server vendor will be best equipped to provide this type of technology, as well as ensure that all their team members are properly trained, certified, and vetted in accordance with state law.