Resources

Frequently asked questions about Legal Process Servers and its services.

Service of Process FAQs

Below are the more common questions (and answers) we have received from our customers. If you can't find the answer to a question you might have or need additional information, let us know.

Who is Legal Process Servers?

We are a Customer Service Company specializing in Process Serving Nationwide as well as "Front Line" Skip Tracing. Headquartered in Columbia Maryland between Washington, DC and Baltimore, MD, we have a national network of over 1200 contract process servers as well as Legal Process Servers vetted process serving companies around the nation.

What does a Legal Process Servers Contract Process Server do?

Our Contract Process Servers follow the rules of the issuing court to hand deliver the documents being served in a manner prescribed by the court. Once the documents are “Served”, Legal Process Servers returns an Affidavit of Service, also called a Proof of Service, to the court in which the case is being heard or given to the party who requested the service for them to file with the court.

How do I place and track my orders?

Legal Process Servers uses a web-based application that allows their clients- paralegals, lawyers, debt collectors and other process servers to enter their orders on-line, attach their documents to their order and electronically send them to us. Once more our clients are able to track the status of their orders on-line and once service is completed they can download a copy of the Affidavit of Service from our website.

How much does it cost to get papers served?

Legal Process Servers costs are determined by the time in which our clients give us to serve their documents, their "serve by date." The cost (base charge) of service is increased if the deadline time to serve is decreased. There are never hidden fees for mileage, notary, etc. You tell us when the deadline date is and we give you the flat fee amount.

Can papers be faxed or e-mailed to Legal Process Servers?

In many cases you will be able to fax or email papers to Legal Process Servers. The only limitation would be is if your local court requires the original documents to be served.

How long does it take to get papers served?

No process server can guarantee your papers will be served. There are just too many intangibles that affect service success. What Legal Process Servers can guarantee is that your documents given to us for Regular Service are usually attempted within 2 to 5 business days after we receive them from you. Legal Process Servers provides the service levels listed below;

  • Regular Service - If we have (10) or more business days to serve your documents
  • Rush Service - If we have (5) to (9) business days to serve your documents
  • Expedited Service - If we have (2) to (4) business days to serve your documents
  • Deadline Service - If we have less than (2) business days to serve your documents

Will you file my affidavit/proof of service with the court?

At our client's request we can do so if the deadline for filing is too short to return it to our client for them to file. An additional charge may apply. Legal Process Servers normally will return the original affidavit/proof or service to our client to file.

Does a process server need to be licensed?

Not all states require a process server to be licensed. However, some jurisdictions require that process servers be registered in their county or state, or appointed to serve in a specific county. Legal Process Servers requires that their contract process servers show proof of registration and or licensing before being assigned work.

What are an Affidavit of Service and a Proof of Service?

An Affidavit of Service, also called a Proof of Service, is a signed document provided to the court by Legal Process Servers upon completion of serving your documents. Proof of Service states when, where, and who was served. There are a number of other affidavits that can be provided to you as a client. For instance, an Affidavit of Due Diligence may be provided if the person to be served cannot be located or is avoiding service.

What exactly is skip tracing to Legal Process Servers?

Legal Process Servers is a "Front Line" Skip Tracer. Front Line means we access the information directly from Credit Bureaus, Motor Vehicle Administrations and Government Agencies, not the pay per search services everyone has access to on the Internet. We then filter and decipher that information to identify locations with the highest probability of successful service. We eliminate outdated and unnecessary addresses and target those with the highest probability of contact. We only charge for the service when we complete service at an address we located.

How do I check on the status of a project?

You may check on the status of your project in a number of ways. We can provide the information electronically by directly interacting with your with your case management software. If you prefer, you can log into our secure case management system and check for yourself. All information is updated daily. Additionally, we send you email to update you along the way, or you can pick up the phone and speak directly with one of our customer service representatives.

Who do I speak with regarding questions about my invoice?

For questions about your account, or for inquiries about a specific project, please contact our accounts receivable department through at 888-721-5100.

How do I become a process server?

Rules and regulations on becoming a certified process server vary by state and/or county. Check with your local courts or regulating agencies to get instructions for your area.