At Accurate Serve of Tampa Bay, we understand the importance of serving legal papers in a timely and efficient manner. One of the most common questions we receive from our clients is, “How many attempts will a process server make to serve my process?” In this blog post, we will discuss the answer to this question and the factors that affect the number of attempts.
How Many Attempts Will a Process Server Make?
The answer to how many attempts a process server will make depends on several factors, including the type of case being served, the location in which the papers are being served, and the specific requirements of the case. In Florida, process servers may need to make from 1 up to 3 service attempts before they can request to use alternative methods of service. These attempts must be made at different times of the day and on different days of the week.
If the process server is unable to serve the papers after the designated number of required attempts under Florida state law, they can request permission from the court to use alternative methods of service. These alternative methods may include posting the papers on the door of the person’s residence, mailing the papers, or serving the papers to a relative or another person who is authorized to accept service on behalf of the person being served.
Factors That Affect the Number of Attempts
There are several factors that affect the number of attempts a process server will make, including:
The Type of Service
The type of service required can affect the number of attempts a process server will make. For example, if the service requires personal service, the process server may make more attempts to serve the papers than they would to a business. It all depends on what the Florida Statutes say about that particular case type. An experienced process server will be able to help you understand the legal requirements for service and effect service in a lawful manner.
The Location of Service
The location where the service of process will take place can dictate the number of service attempts to be made. If the process server intends to serve the papers to someone at their place of employment, they only need to schedule a time to meet with the person’s supervisor to pass along the process. Once the supervisor receives the process, the person is considered served under Florida law, so only one service attempt is needed. However, service at a personal residence may require many service attempts before the person is located.
The Specific Requirements of the Case
The specific requirements of the case can also affect the number of attempts a process server will make. For example, if the person being served is known to be evasive or difficult to locate, the process server may make more attempts to serve the papers. If the process recipient has privacy concerns, they may want to schedule a time to meet with the process server to receive the paperwork, requiring the server to only attempt service once.
At Accurate Serve, We Don’t Stop Until Service is Complete
It is important to work with a reputable and reliable process service agency that is familiar with Florida’s laws and regulations to ensure that the legal process is carried out fairly and justly. For the best process servers in Tampa Bay, contact Accurate Serve at 813-544-6900 or send us a work request online today.
