What's a Process Server?

Service of process is the procedure by which a party to a lawsuit gives an appropriate notice of initial legal action to another party, court, or administrative body in an effort to exercise jurisdiction over that person so as to force that person to respond to the proceeding before the court, body, or other tribunal.

What does a process server do?

A process server's main job is to deliver legal documents to an individual or party named in the action. The purpose of process service is to place the party on notice that an action has begun or that a relevant document has been filed in the case. Some documents in a legal action must be served in a specific manner.

What happens if you don't answer the door to a process server?

If a Defendant Does Not Answer the Door

A process server cannot compel a defendant to answer the door. In some cases, people who know a lawsuit has been filed against them will attempt to avoid service. ... He or she will have to come back on another date if the defendant refuses to open the door.