If you’re involved in a legal case in Arizona, hiring a process server is often necessary to ensure legal documents are delivered in compliance with state laws. While the cost of hiring a process server can vary, it’s essential to understand the factors that influence pricing and what you should expect to pay. Let’s explore the key cost considerations when hiring a process server in Arizona.
Basic Service Fees
The average cost of hiring a process server in Arizona typically ranges from $50 to $100 per service. This base fee covers the cost of the process server attempting to deliver the legal documents to the intended recipient. The exact cost may vary depending on factors such as the location of the individual being served and how quickly the service needs to be completed.
If the recipient is located in a more rural or hard-to-reach area, or if rush service is required, the fee may be higher. The base fee usually includes a set number of service attempts—typically three—to deliver the documents.
Additional Charges for Complex or Rush Services
In some cases, additional charges may apply. For example, if you require rush service, where the documents must be served within a very short time frame, process servers may charge an extra fee for the expedited service. Rush service fees can range from $25 to $75 or more, depending on the urgency.
Another situation where additional fees may be incurred is when the recipient is difficult to locate. If the process server needs to perform extra investigative work, such as skip tracing—locating individuals who have moved or are attempting to avoid service—this could add to the overall cost. Skip tracing fees can range from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the complexity of the case.
Service of Multiple Documents or Parties
If you need multiple sets of legal documents served or if more than one person needs to be served, this will also impact the total cost. Most process servers charge per person being served, and if you have additional documents, there may be an extra fee. However, some process servers offer discounts for serving multiple parties or documents in the same case.
Filing and Affidavit Fees
Once the documents have been served, the process server must provide a proof of service, also known as an affidavit of service. Some process servers include this filing with the court in their base fee, while others may charge an additional fee for filing the affidavit. This fee is usually minimal, ranging from $10 to $25, but it’s important to clarify this with your process server to avoid unexpected charges.
Travel and Mileage Fees
If the recipient of the legal documents is located far from the process server’s base of operations, travel and mileage fees may apply. Arizona’s process servers often charge mileage fees in accordance with the IRS standard mileage rate. These fees may be higher if the recipient is in a remote or rural location that requires extended travel time.
What to Expect in Terms of Cost
Hiring a process server in Arizona typically costs between $50 and $100 for basic service, but the price can increase depending on factors like rush service, skip tracing, and mileage fees. Understanding these potential additional costs will help you plan and budget effectively. Be sure to ask your process server about any potential extra charges upfront to ensure you are fully informed about the total cost of service.
