Some service companies are less known, simply because they are so specialized that you may never have a need for their services throughout your life. This is the case of a process service company, which you will only require if you get involved in a legal case. They are known as a process server, as well as legal couriers. This is what you should know about their services and the precise cases when you may need to call upon their services.
What does a Process Service Company do?
A process service company, which is also known as a process server or a legal courier, is a firm that serves legal documents on behalf of parties involved in a legal case. It is responsible for delivering legal documents such as subpoenas, summons and complaints to the intended recipients. The service of process is a crucial step in legal proceedings, and it ensures that all parties receive proper notice of legal action against them. If it is not handled the right way, it could cause prejudice to the party that has sent the document, which is why it is crucial to use the services of a company that has experience in the matter, like these process servers in Washington DC.
When should you call upon the Services of a Process Service Company?
You may need to contact a process service company if you are involved in a legal matter as a plaintiff or as a defendant. They will be useful if you need to serve legal documents on the other party. They can also deliver the documents to many parties for the same case, if there happens to be more than one involved. This way, it will be easier to prove the delivery in court, as the process server can provide all the information that it will need. The most common way to explain how the documents were served is by writing an affidavit that describes precisely, when, where and how it happened. This paper must be signed by the person who delivered the document in hands, in order to be valid.
Why is it Better to use a Professional Process Service Company?
Although it is not obligatory, you should always call upon the services of a process company to deliver legal documents. Any person that is over 18 years old, and is not attached to the legal case, can do so. But it may turn out to be a complete disaster if the job is not done by professionals. First, it is hard to know how the person receiving the legal documents will react. Often, they become agitated and even violent. Therefore, if the person is not prepared for such reactions, he could be in danger. Secondly, there are regulations that define how the documents have to be provided, and how it must be registered as delivered. If they are not taken in account and observed scrupulously, the whole process may be considered null, which would create legal issues in the case for the person who sent the document to the other party in the form of legal delays and additional costs. Professionals working for process service companies are trained and experienced in handling legal documents. Therefore, they can make sure that they are delivered in compliance with all legal requirements.
What is the Job of a Process Server and Which Documents does he serve?
Although the process server’s job is to deliver legal documents, it starts before this action can proceed. In fact, one of the hardest parts of the work is to locate the named party. He will try to find him at home or at work, but the person may not be willing to receive the documents and will pretend not to be there. Therefore, the process server needs to find other locations where he may be found, such as the gym, a golf court he visits regularly, etc. Once he has served the required legal documents, he then has to provide proof of service to the court. It is this proof of service that is essential in ensuring that proper notification has been given to all parties involved in the legal proceedings. The documents served can include: Summons and complaints, subpoenas, writs, orders to show cause, citations, petitions, small claim documents, notice of legal action, divorce papers and child custody documents.
