Often, when you think of someone being served in legal proceedings, you think of an individual. But, legal disputes involving a business are a common occurrence and it is essential that they are properly notified of the legal action being taken against them. This is where process servers play a crucial role. You may be wondering, how do process servers serve a business named in a lawsuit? Below, we take a look at how process servers serve a business named in a lawsuit and discuss the importance of their role in ensuring due process.
Understanding How Process Servers Serve a Business: Where to Start
First, when a business is named in a lawsuit, a process server must identify the correct legal entity that should receive the legal documents. Businesses can take various forms, including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), partnerships, and sole proprietorships. Each business entity has unique and specific requirements for service of process. Determining the requirements is essential to ensure that the documents are delivered to the right place so there are no delays in, or problems with, legal proceedings.
Locating and Serving the Registered Agent of a Business
Most states require businesses to have a registered agent, also known as a statutory agent or agent for service of process. The registered agent acts as a point of contact for legal documents on behalf of the business. When process servers serve a business, they must locate and serve the business’ registered agent. Serving the documents involves physically delivering them to the registered agent or any other authorized representative of the business. Process servers must visit the business premises during business hours. If the registered agent cannot be personally served, alternative methods, such as leaving the documents with an authorized employee or posting them at the business address can be used.