No one likes to be the bearer of bad news, but someone has to do it. When delivering bad news to someone, the person receiving the bad news may not see it as the process server “just doing his or her job.” In fact, they may see the person who is serving the papers as personally responsible for their bad news. This is why those who obtain a job serving papers must make sure they are well prepared for any dangers that can possibly come with it. Some guidelines that process servers regularly follow are:
- Always have a game plan.
- Always know where your exits are before approaching a house.
- Never park in a place, such as a driveway, where you can be blocked in by another vehicle.
- Never lose sight of the person being served. Turning your back on someone you have served can be dangerous.
- Always have your cell phone fully charged and in hand, with a number already dialed. If you feel you are in danger, it is much easier to keep your finger on the send button to make a phone call.
- Always trust your instincts. If you feel threatened, leave.
- Expect the unexpected. Common sense plays a large role in serving papers.
- Always stand back from the door so you do not get hit when it is opened.
It is important to trust your gut when serving papers. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Always remain professional and polite. It is also important to keep a low voice and a smile on your face. When someone is yelling at you, remember that they are not mad at you, but at the situation itself. Those serving papers typically carry items such as pepper spray for defense, but are not allowed to carry lethal weapons. It is always better to be safe than sorry.
