Common Process Serving Mistakes

Avoid costly errors that can invalidate service and delay your case. Learn what pitfalls to watch for and how we prevent them.

Top Process Serving Mistakes to Avoid

These common errors can result in dismissed cases, delayed proceedings, or judgments being overturned. Our professional servers are trained to avoid every one.

1

Incomplete or Inaccurate Affidavits

Missing dates, incorrect times, vague physical descriptions, or incomplete addresses can render an affidavit defective. Courts scrutinize these documents closely.

How We Prevent This:

Our servers document every detail at the time of service. Affidavits are reviewed for completeness before delivery to ensure they meet all court requirements.

2

Using the Wrong Service Method

Jumping to "nail and mail" without proper due diligence, serving at the wrong location, or using substituted service when personal service was achievable can invalidate service.

How We Prevent This:

We always attempt personal service first and only move to alternative methods when properly documented due diligence justifies it.

3

Serving the Wrong Person

Serving someone with a similar name, serving at an old address, or failing to verify identity can result in service on the wrong individual entirely.

How We Prevent This:

We verify identity through questioning and document physical descriptions. Address verification is standard practice before service attempts.

4

Insufficient Due Diligence Documentation

For alternative service methods, courts require proof of reasonable attempts. Vague descriptions of "multiple attempts" without specific dates, times, and observations won't suffice.

How We Prevent This:

Every attempt is logged with exact date, time, observations, and outcome. Our due diligence records exceed court requirements.

5

Using Unlicensed Process Servers

In NYC, using an unlicensed server is a violation that can result in service being deemed invalid. The defendant can challenge service and potentially have the case dismissed.

How We Prevent This:

All our process servers are fully licensed by NYC DCA, with current credentials verified and maintained at all times.

6

Missing Mailing Requirements

For substituted and conspicuous place service, mailing must be completed within required timeframes. Missing the 20-day mailing deadline for substituted service invalidates the service.

How We Prevent This:

Our tracking system ensures mailing is completed immediately and properly documented with proof of mailing for your records.

Don't Risk Your Case

Work with professionals who know how to avoid these costly mistakes. Get reliable, compliant process serving from the start.