How Long Does a Process Server Have to Serve Papers
In the state of Florida, when you file a legal complaint against another party with the Clerk of Court, the clock starts ticking. It is now the plaintiff’s responsibility to make sure the parties named in the complaint and resulting court summons are properly notified. Florida requires that this notification be done by a law enforcement officer or certified third-party process server.
Timelines
Summons & Complaints
From the date of filing, the plaintiff has 120 days (approximately 4 months) to serve the named defendant(s) with the summons and complaint. Refer to Florida’s state laws governing process servers for all the rules about how process may be served (there’s a lot!).
Subpoenas
In the case of a witness or subject matter expert who is being called to testify or provide evidence, they must receive notice of the requested appearance in court with enough time to adequately prepare. Subpoenas should be delivered in the same manner as a summons and complaint. In person delivery is preferred, but in cases where in person delivery is unsuccessful, service by mail or publication is also possible. The process must be postmarked at least 7 days prior to the requested appearance for service by mail. For service by publication, the process must be posted in a conspicuous place at the intended recipient’s confirmed residence for at least 5 business days prior to the requested appearance date.
Other Documents
Each court document comes with its own special set of rules and procedures. For more information on other types of court documents and their associated timelines, contact the local Clerk of Court or consult with an attorney.
Accurate Serve® Gets Your Case Process There On Time, Every Time
Just because we have 120 days to get your case’s summons and complaint to the named defendants doesn’t mean it will take that long. Most service requests we receive are handled within just a few days! You can also track the status of your case with us 24/7 using our convenient online account feature.
Process Servers on the Treasure Coast
For the best process servers in St. Lucie and surrounding counties, trust the professional team at Accurate Serve®. We stay up to date on all the relevant deadlines, so you never have to worry about your case’s process not making it in time. To get started, call (772) 236-7214 or send us a work request online.