Have you ever wondered about some of the other jobs in the legal profession other than the judge, the lawyers and the bailiffs? The process server is an integral part of the legal process but it is more like the behind-the-scenes prep work to get all parties into the courtroom at the same time. Process servers are one piece of the complicated civil and criminal procedures that exist under United States law.
What Are the Responsibilities of a Process Server?
Process servers play a support role in the legal system. They hand deliver important legal documents, such as subpoenas, summons, complaints and more to individuals involved in court cases. In performing this action, these agents of the court issue precious information to the people who’ll need it. In divorce proceedings, for instance, a neutral party must be the one who delivers important legal documents. One partner cannot simply hand them to the other.
If a participant cannot be found, which happens sometimes for any number of reasons, the server can file an Affidavit of Diligent Search, which basically informs the court that the server, despite all good faith efforts, could not deliver the legal papers to them.
What Training Does a Process Server Need?
There are different regulations for process servers, depending on the state you’re in. You’ll need a valid driver’s license and then you’ll want to research your state’s specific requirements. In Arizona, for instance, process servers must be 21 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, pass an FBI background check and pay for and pass the state licensing test given in the county of the applicant’s residence.
Why Become a Process Server?
Becoming a process server offers both challenges and rewards. The job is important and noble in that it gives parties that are about to go through legal proceedings proper notice so that they can plan accordingly. Contact Arizona Quick Serve today if you need to learn more about process servers or want us to deliver papers on your behalf.
