Many firms use process servers to deliver legal notices. When they are contracting with a private process server, there are some things that can make the whole process more efficient. No matter how busy a process server is, there are still ways to speed up the process even more.
1. When serving someone at work or home, ask your client when the subject is usually in each location.
This sounds simple, but just knowing when someone is going to be home can save you needless hours of waiting.
For example, you know the subject's schedule is 9 to 6, and they like to go to the gym after work, it's not efficient for your process server to show up before say 7:30 p.m. This cuts down on the number of times contact is attempted and increases your chance of success so that the case can move forward.
2. When due diligence is required, always send a driver’s license number.
A driver's license number allows a search to be made online, which drastically speeds up the time to completion at least two days.
One great example of this is New Jersey which offers this service. Without a driver’s license number, a request has to be mailed to the state's Motor Vehicle office, and it can take as long as three weeks to get it back.
3. If you want the process server to attempt service at a second location as a backup, include that in the request to serve.
If an alternate address is given, the process server has multiple ways to deliver the legal document and finish the job. The greater framework given as to the subject's whereabouts and schedule, the greater your chances are of finding them.
These tips are meant as simple reminders to help you save time and energy and get the most out of your process server for faster delivery of notifications that allow your case to move ahead.