What Happens if You Avoid a Process Server in Florida

Do you have a legal matter that involves someone who is avoiding being found for the case to move forward? If so, you may be wondering what the consequences are for avoiding a process server in Florida. In actuality, there are no criminal charges that will be filed for avoiding a process server. However, there can be legal ramifications. Here is what will happen if someone avoids a process server.

Service Can Happen Anywhere

The first thing to understand in these situations is that a process server can serve papers to an individual wherever they may be found. This means that even if the individual to be served avoids answering the door when the process server arrives at their place of residence, they can still be served elsewhere. 

Often the workaround to this is to serve them at work, where they are not able to as easily duck out or pretend they are not there. Service can also take place at activities or events that the individual is known to frequent. 

Alternative Service

If an individual manages to avoid process servers to the extent that they are completely unable to serve the papers in a timely or proper manner, there are still some ways that you can move your case forward. Alternative methods of service exist for cases in which the individual to be served cannot be located or served for whatever reason. A judge must approve alternative service, as well as the method of service. The most common alternative method of service is publication in a local newspaper. 

In these situations, there can be significant legal ramifications for the person who avoided the process server. If they do not read the newspaper or if they do not see the notice of service through alternative means approved by the judge, the case will still move forward. Except in these situations, the individual will not know when court is taking place so that they can defend themselves. Often these situations end in default judgments.

If you have papers that need to be served, contact us today for more information or to get started.