Jail Service

How to Choose the Best Process Server in Houston, TX

Jail Service, Process Service

How to Choose the Best Process Server for Your Needs

When you need a process server, it’s essential to hire the best in the business. Only a top-notch professional can ensure your legal paperwork is delivered accurately and promptly.

While many claim to be the best, your decision should be based on thorough research. Here are four key factors to consider when selecting a process server:

1. Certifications

Legally, anyone over 18 and uninvolved in the case can serve legal papers. However, entrusting this critical task to just anyone is risky. Certifications can help narrow down your choices to qualified professionals.

Ask potential process servers about their credentials. Certification ensures they understand local laws and will follow proper procedures, giving you confidence in their ability to deliver your documents legally and efficiently.

2. Experience

Experience is another hallmark of an exceptional process server. A seasoned professional is likely to be more efficient than someone new to the field.

When choosing a process server, inquire about their years of experience. More experienced servers often work faster and have the skills and resources to locate individuals who may be difficult to find.

3. Timing

If time is of the essence, you’ll want a process server who can deliver your documents promptly. Not all process servers offer expedited services, but the best ones can accommodate same-day or rush requests.

Before hiring, discuss their typical turnaround time. Ask about their track record with urgent cases and ensure they can meet your specific deadlines. Anyone who can’t guarantee timely delivery should be ruled out.

4. Rates and Fees

Affordability is also a crucial factor when selecting a process server. Some servers appear inexpensive at first glance but may surprise you with hidden fees after the job is done.

The best process servers are transparent about their pricing, including any additional charges. Confirm that their rates fit your budget and ensure there are no unexpected costs.

Your Trusted Process Servers—Locally and Internationally

If you’re looking for an experienced, efficient, and affordable process server, Houston Process Servers, LLC, is here to help.

We’ve built a reputation as one of the most reliable process-serving teams in the U.S. and internationally. We offer rush and emergency services, as well as jail notary services. No matter the complexity of your request, we’ll get it done quickly and professionally.

Contact Houston Process Servers, LLC, today to get started!

Legal Documents Delivery in Houston, Texas

Jail Service, Process Service
Courier delivering legal documents in Houston, TX

In the fast-paced world of legal processes, legal documents delivery in Houston, Texas, is a crucial service that demands accuracy, confidentiality, and reliability. Whether you’re an attorney, a business owner, or an individual requiring secure handling of legal paperwork, having a trusted service ensures your critical documents are delivered on time and in compliance with legal requirements. This guide explores the importance of professional legal document delivery services, the types of documents handled, and why Houston-based expertise matters.

 

The Importance of Legal Document Delivery Services

Legal document delivery isn’t just about handing over paperwork—it’s a meticulous process that ensures documents reach the right person or entity securely and within the required timeframe. Mistakes or delays can lead to missed deadlines, legal disputes, or case dismissals, making professional delivery services indispensable.

Here’s why professional legal document delivery services are essential:

  • Accuracy and Compliance: Professionals understand the importance of following legal procedures when serving or delivering documents.
  • Timeliness: Courts and legal entities often have strict deadlines; professional services ensure documents are delivered promptly.
  • Confidentiality: Sensitive legal documents are handled securely to maintain privacy and confidentiality.
  • Proof of Delivery: Delivery services provide detailed records, including timestamps, signatures, and verification, which are critical for legal proceedings.

Types of Legal Documents We Deliver

At the core of our legal document delivery services is a commitment to handling a wide variety of legal documents with precision and professionalism. The following are some of the key legal documents we deliver:

1. Subpoenas

Subpoenas are legal orders requiring a person to appear in court or produce evidence. These must be served correctly and in compliance with the law. Our professionals ensure subpoenas are delivered promptly and with the proper proof of service.

2. Summons

A summons notifies an individual or entity of a lawsuit or court appearance. We specialize in ensuring summons are delivered on time and to the correct recipients, leaving no room for errors.

3. Citations

Citations are legal notices informing individuals of obligations, such as appearing in court or addressing a legal matter. Our team handles the delivery of citations with care, providing verification for every service.

4. Restriction Orders

Restriction orders, such as restraining orders, are sensitive documents that require urgent delivery. Our team ensures these critical documents are delivered confidentially and in adherence to all legal procedures.

Why Choose Professional Legal Document Delivery in Houston?

Houston is a vast and dynamic city with a busy legal landscape. Navigating its courts, law offices, and business districts requires local expertise. Opting for a professional delivery service in Houston offers several advantages:

1. Local Knowledge and Expertise

A Houston-based delivery service is familiar with local courts, legal systems, and geography, ensuring smooth and timely deliveries.

2. Fast and Reliable Service

Timeliness is critical in legal matters. Professional couriers offer same-day and expedited delivery options to meet urgent deadlines.

3. Secure Handling of Sensitive Documents

Legal documents often contain confidential information. We use tamper-proof packaging and advanced tracking systems to safeguard your documents.

4. Proof of Delivery

We provide comprehensive documentation, including timestamps, recipient signatures, and real-time tracking updates, giving you peace of mind and legal proof of service.

5. Compliance with Legal Procedures

Our team is well-versed in the legal requirements for document delivery, ensuring all documents are served or delivered according to the law.

 

How Our Legal Document Delivery Service Works

Our streamlined process ensures that your legal documents are handled efficiently and professionally from start to finish. Here’s how it works:

1. Contact Us

Provide us with details about your document, including the type, destination, and delivery deadline.

2. Confirm Delivery Requirements

Let us know if you need expedited delivery, special handling, or proof of service documentation.

3. Secure Delivery

We deliver your documents promptly, securely, and in full compliance with legal standards.

4. Receive Proof of Delivery

Once the delivery is complete, we provide a record of service, including date, time, and recipient information.

Benefits of Partnering with Us

Choosing our legal document delivery service in Houston means you’ll benefit from:

  • Unmatched Expertise: We specialize in legal deliveries and understand the nuances of the process.
  • Dependable Service: Our team is committed to accuracy, confidentiality, and timeliness.
  • Advanced Technology: With real-time tracking and delivery notifications, you’re always informed.
  • Flexible Options: From same-day delivery to scheduled services, we tailor our solutions to meet your needs.

The Cost of Legal Document Delivery

Costs for legal document delivery services vary depending on factors such as:

  • Delivery distance
  • Document urgency
  • Complexity of service (e.g., service of process requirements)

While cost is an important factor, choosing a reliable and experienced provider is essential to avoid the risk of missed deadlines or improperly handled documents.

Conclusion

Professional legal document delivery in Houston, Texas, is an essential service for attorneys, businesses, and individuals dealing with time-sensitive and confidential legal matters. By choosing a reliable delivery provider, you can ensure your documents are handled with the care, precision, and professionalism they require.

What is a Restraining Order? | How is a Restraining Order Delivered?

Jail Service, Process Service
What is a Restraining Order in Texas?

A restraining order is a court order that can be obtained by a person who believes they are in immediate danger of harm from another person or persons. The goal is to provide that person with legal protection from another party until things are allowed to be further investigated.

A restraining order protects the victim and their dependents from being harmed, threatened, harassed, or stalked by their abuser.

The judge may issue an emergency protective order without notice to the respondent if there is good cause for immediate action due to threats of physical violence made against the applicant or their children.

 

What is a Restraining Order?

A restraining order is a type of civil court order that protects an individual from harassment, stalking, or threatening behavior. A person who feels threatened by someone else can obtain a restraining order to legally protect themselves.

In Houston, Texas, and other jurisdictions, restraining orders may only sometimes be issued after the defendant has been given notice of the intended action and an opportunity to defend themselves at a hearing before a judge.

Restraining orders are sometimes called “domestic violence” or “domestic abuse” orders. However, it’s important to remember that not all restraining orders stem from domestic violence. They can be issued in situations where there was no physical contact between the parties involved in the case (such as between neighbors).

Learning what is a restraining order simple helps to clear up which party is in distress.

 

What is the power of restraining order?

A restraining order is a court order that prohibits a person from contacting or going near another person. A restraining order is a civil proceeding and not a criminal one. The primary purpose of this court action is to keep the parties separated for their own safety and welfare, as well as for the protection of their children and others who may be vulnerable under their care.

Restraining orders can have varying degrees of power depending on your state’s laws, but they are legally enforceable anywhere in America so long as they have been issued by an appropriate authority (typically a judge).

This means what is the purpose of a restraining order may have the same impact in New York as it did when the restraining order service was issued in Houston, Texas. The legal ramifications may be harder to navigate, but the order often remains in place.

What is the Difference Between a Protective Order and a Restraining Order in Texas?

A protective order is a type of civil court order which can be issued by a judge in a civil case. A protective order is not the same thing as an arrest or criminal charge.

A restraining order is also called an injunction or an anti-harassment order. They are all different types of orders that have been used to address violence and harassment in Texas family law cases for many years.

The primary difference between what is a restraining order number and receiving an order of protection has to do with the immediate threat of violence. A protective order is often direct or used in emergencies because the court views one party as in danger from the other party.

 

How is a Restraining Order Issued?

If you are the victim of domestic violence or stalking, you can file a petition for a restraining order in court. The court will then decide whether to issue a temporary restraining order or a permanent one.

You can also request that the judge issue an emergency protective order (EPO). An EPO will temporarily restrict the abuser’s access to your home and other personal property until your hearing date. If it is an emergency, it is recommended that you file online instead of at the courthouse so that you do not have to wait in line before filing your petition with the court clerk’s office.

Once you have filed this document with the appropriate clerk’s office, they will provide instructions on how best to serve it on your abuser.

Typically this involves serving both parties by mail with certified copies of all documents relevant to this case or hiring a private restraining order delivery service to ensure the documents arrive on time to the accurate party.

 

Who Can Issued a Restraining Order?

A restraining order can be issued by a court, judge, or court clerk. In some states, law enforcement officers can also issue a restraining order, but that tends to be by an elected official like a sheriff.

This is important for you to know because it gives you an idea about who will be able to serve the restraining order on your ex-partner and when they will do so.

While the issuance of a restraining order is by a high legal authority, how is a restrainer order legally served can be completed by restraining order servers near me you find online.

 

What is a Restraining Order and Summons Difference.

A restraining order is a court order that can be used to protect you from another person. A summons, on the other hand, is a notice of a court hearing.

A restraining order is used in civil cases and requires you to prove that there’s an ongoing threat of harassment or harm against you. If the judge grants your request for a restraining order, this means that the person named in it cannot contact or come near you without risking arrest.

On the other hand, if someone has been charged with criminal charges or is part of a lawsuit, a court may issue a summons to require that person to show up for a legal proceeding.

 

How is a Restraining Order Served

A restraining order can be served by a sheriff or police officer of the county where you live. If you are over 18 years old, you may serve your own order. If someone else serves it for you, they must be at least 18 years old and not have been convicted of a felony or domestic violence offense within the past seven years.

The best option is to work with a professional restraining order process server company with a history of success and trustworthiness for acting in accordance with current legal standards.

 

Can You Get Around a Restraining Order?

If a restraining order is issued, it’s against the abuser. The person being accused can’t just ignore it and think they won’t get in trouble. When an abuser ignores a restraining order, they’re breaking the law—and can face serious consequences.

If you’re worried about getting around your own or someone else’s restraining order, know that this is not legal in any state in America. In addition, if you try to contact someone who has received a restraining order against you while they are under protection from abuse, you could be arrested and put in jail for contempt of court or violating the order.

 

How Do You Respond to a Restraining Order?

There are plenty of cases when a restraining order was issued in error or without the full extent of the facts. Even if you have a restraining order process server deliver your paperwork, that is not the end of the situation.

You can contact a lawyer to fight the restraining order by demonstrating that is no need and that you have not made any threats.

Conclusion

A restraining order is a court order that aims to stop one person from harming another person. A restraining order can be issued by either a judge or magistrate in a criminal case or by family law judges in family law cases.

In most states, including Houston, Texas, you can get a temporary restraining order without going to court, depending on the severity of the need.

No matter what, you should hire a professional restraining order delivery service, so you do not risk being around the other party. Hopefully, this will keep you safe while the total weight of the legal situation is explored by a court.

Do Process Servers Call Before They Serve You?

Jail Service, Process Service
Process server served defendants by phone.

A process server has a complex job that boils down to the simple action of whether or not they can reach you to make delivery of legal paperwork. Most professional process servers must follow guidelines and accepted practices to ensure the safe delivery of such items without tarnishing the job.

Unlike most TV shows and movies, process servers spend 99% of their career dressed professionally and using open communication that makes it easier to deliver outcomes. However, they will, from time to time, call ahead to ensure you will be at a location before they make a delivery. This is not required but more of a courtesy to provide a higher success rate.

 

Process server track phones of defendants
© Houston Process Servers, LLC. All rights reserved

 

Can Process Servers Track Your Phone?

A process server has no legal authority to track your phone in any way unless you publicly allow it. That means if you are posting where you are having lunch or dinner to a social media account or showing off a picture of your daily jogging route, then a process server may use that information to track you down.

You have to remember that a process server is not a police officer. They do not carry weapons and have absolutely nothing to do with your case other than the successful delivery of documents. If you ever see them again, it is to confirm to a judge that you received the intended documents, and that is it.

 

Can You Be Served Over the Phone in Texas?

Until recently, phone service of any kind was not part of the process server’s purview. That means the question of can you be legally notified by phone or can you be served by text message was a no.

However, there are some exceptions. Recently, the Texas Supreme Court made some process service possible through social media. This only pertains to civil cases of a specific type, but the amendment to Rule 106 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure has been amended to allow a defendant to be served “electronically by social media, email, or other technology.” That “other technology” could soon include a phone or text.

 

Why Did a Process Server Call Me?

If you are wondering do process servers call you from unknown numbers, the answer is yes. They will contact you to leave a message about delivering legal papers to you or to try and track down someone they are looking for that cannot be reached. Just because a process server is calling you does not mean you are the intended target of the legal action.

The important thing to remember is that if you do receive a call, you face the situation head-on. You are far better equipped when you have the time to prepare for legal action by accepting the paperwork than by delaying the inevitable and avoiding proper service.

In fact, our team at Houston Process Severs always suggests those receiving documents take them and immediately contact their legal counsel. That way, they have every advantage to prepare for what is ahead and demonstrate to the courts that they are not trying to hide from responsibility. That kind of mature attitude goes a long way with a judge.

If you would like to ensure your documents arrive on time to the accurate target, schedule service with our expert team today. We work with most businesses, law enforcement organizations, attorneys, courts, and government agencies. We utilize modern technology to document every step of our process for easy tracking. Reach out today. We look forward to working with you!

How to Properly Communicate with a Process Server?

Jail Service, Process Service
A Process Server Talking to scared defendants.

Whether you’re a process server or just someone who’s dealt with one, you may have noticed that the job itself is often a little…misunderstood. Some think process servers are bounty hunters, while others believe they’re just glorified paper carriers. In all of this confusion, one thing remains true: the world would be a much better place if we all knew how to communicate effectively with a process server.

 

The point of a process server is to continue the operations of a legal situation or case. Their role is to deliver documents to someone who is a legal entity in a case. That could be for a lawsuit, contracts, or a requirement to appear before a court. Regardless of the situation, you should always treat these working professionals with the same respect and courtesy you would expect in return.

 

A few key reminders of how best to communicate with process servers include:

 

Never Be Aggressive

There is no reason to be aggressive with a process server. These are human beings performing an essential service that has been authorized and certified by the Supreme Court. They have the same rights and expectations of life as you do.

 

Swearing, threatening, or acting aggressively in any way towards a process server will most likely be recorded in their verification documents and passed on to the courts. That can reflect poorly on your situation, and you will want every advantage possible so that you can come out the other side as favorably as possible.

 

Keep the Conversation Respectful & Simple

You should be polite and respectful when you talk to a process server. Don’t argue with them, don’t be aggressive with them, don’t be rude or condescending, and definitely don’t make any threats. If you decide to be argumentative because you think it will help your case in court or whatever other reason, keep in mind that the only thing it will do is make the process server more determined to serve you.

 

Also, don’t ask questions that can quickly be answered with a yes or no response (in fact, avoid questions altogether if possible). And most importantly: never ever attempt sarcasm! This is not a friend or an enemy, simply someone representing a courthouse or judge.

 

A Process Server serving legal documents to defendants
© Houston Process Servers, LLC. All rights reserved

 

Understand the Rights of a Process Server

Yes, a process server is conducting the business of a court, but they are also a human being afforded the same rights as you. If you act in any way violent toward a process server, you could be punished by jail time, especially if the server reports these actions to the police. The simple truth is you wouldn’t attack an Amazon delivery driver just for leaving your package at the door, so why treat a process server any different?

 

Keep Your Responses Limited

This is a legal case. A process server writes a detailed report that could include any language or facts you say. Do not ask the process server about their personal life. Do not ask them about their job, religious beliefs, political views, or sexual orientation. Not only is it probably none of your business, but this can also be considered harassment and could get you in trouble with law enforcement agencies. A simple “thank you” is all that needs to be said.

 

Think About the Judge

An easy way to communicate with a process server is to imagine a judge overseeing your interaction. You do not want a bad reputation or something as small as a poorly timed joke to make the judge look unfairly on your position. Instead, stay professional and focus your energy on contacting your legal counsel to clear up the situation so the process server can move on to their next assignment.

 

 

Wrapping it Up

Although being served is an intimidating experience, it doesn’t have to be an uncomfortable one. If you are calm and respectful with the process server, your case will run much more smoothly. It’s also a good idea to be honest about your location to avoid any further legal issues down the road. Remember that there’s no need for violence or confrontation when a process server comes knocking on your door—they’re just doing their job!

 

That is why all our team members at Houston Process Servers treat each client and recipient with the utmost respect and dignity. We take no sides in the cases and simply want to offer professional, reliable, and accurate service. To learn more about our team or engage with our process serving services around the greater Houston area, please use our intake form. We are happy to work with law enforcement, courts, law firms, government agencies, and other legal entities.

Questions to Ask When Hiring a Process Server

Jail Service, Process Service
Black male pointing his finger on question: How to Hire a Process Server.

Process servers are a crucial element in the legal and business system many clients rely upon for day-to-day operations. From a top legal firm working on a significant case to an independent business needing clearly signed and documented paperwork, process servers save you time and money trying to track down the critical targets of your operations.

When you are considering hiring a process server, you should ask some fundamental questions to ensure they will be a good match for your specific means. It does not matter if you are working with process servers in Harris, Montgomery, or Fort Bend County, Texas. The team you hire should be professional, reputable, and reliable. Here is a quick list of the more important questions you may wish to ask:

 

What are your credentials?

Process servers receive different credentials based on the state they operate. For example, Houston Process Servers of Houston, Texas does not need a license. Instead, we are certified by JBCC (Judicial Branch Certification Commission). It is important to make this differentiation because, in the case of JBCC, this is not a baseline certification but a nod of approval from the same body that oversees court interpreters, guardianship programs, court reporters, and other essential auxiliary services for a court of law.

 

Do you go through training or join associations?

Training can be done in-house by the process server firm. The more important question is about memberships. In order to join organizations like the Texas Process Servers Association or the National Association of Professional Process Servers, you must meet requirements that verify your ethics, experience, and practice. You also need to be recommended by fellow members. For example, the National organization requires two people (lawyers, process servers, and judges) to recommend your membership, and you must pass a background check.

 

Have many years of experience does your team have? 

Hiring a process server with experience will help ensure the documents are served correctly, which is essential for your case to move forward smoothly. That means they will be able to handle any situation that comes their way efficiently and effectively, including knowing which people and conditions could lead to papers not being served. Experience directly relates to what allows them to anticipate potential problems before they arise.

 

What kinds of organizations and individuals do you work with?

Different process server firms will target their business towards various client segments. In our case, we primarily work with courts, law firms, law enforcement, government agencies, and other professionals.

 

What other services do you offer? 

Many process server firms offer services like notaries and skip tracing because those are so well aligned with the primary objective of serving legal documents to people that are hard to locate. You can often measure the experience and expertise of a process server firm by the types of auxiliary services they provide to legal entities and courts.

 

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

It’s essential to ask about a process server’s background for your legal needs. You should be looking for someone who is licensed and insured, has experience in serving papers, and is reliable and affordable. A licensed process server can help you serve court documents in person or by mail (as allowed by law). They will also have practiced in their field long enough that they can identify whether there are any potential problems with serving documents on a business or legal representative.

The final thing to keep in mind is that hiring a process server should be pleasant and professional. After all, this is a crucial part of your legal journey, and you deserve to work with someone you can trust. The questions we’ve asked here are designed to help you find just that—a trustworthy process server who will take care of your needs efficiently and effectively.

We at Houston Process Servers encourage our clients to ask any questions they may need about our services and background. We have years of experience working with all kinds of entities around the greater Houston area and pride ourselves on our reputation with law enforcement, courts, legal firms, businesses, and other organizations. Feel free to use your intake form to begin your process server journey and let our professional team help you with your needs.

Is it Legal to Lie to a Process Server?

Jail Service, Locate Service, Process Service
Black male on pink background asking question Is It Legal to Lie to a Process Server?

A process server delivers legal documents related to civil cases in a court of law. This could be something as small as a notice you need to appear as a witness to something far more critical, like a class action lawsuit against your business. For that reason, many people try to avoid being served by lying about their whereabouts or identity. So, is this legal activity?

 

Process Servers are not Officers of the Law

 

The short answer is that you can lie to a process server, but you have to keep in mind a few caveats. There are gray areas where you could be considered “Preventing Execution of Civil Process” under the Texas Penal Code. That states any person committing an offense by intentionally or knowingly by words or physical action prevents the execution of any process.

 

There is an exception, and that relates to evading service. In other words, you can lie about who you are and if you are home or not, but if the process server knows you are lying and hands you the documents, then you are officially served.

 

This is an area where contacting a lawyer is the best option. Once there is a legal proceeding against you, it makes way more sense to accept the documents you are being served and hash out your differences and legal actions in court. The process server is just a messenger. Their goal is to deliver documents from point A to point B.

 

A Futile Lie

 

A professional process server team like ours at Houston Process Servers follows strict guidelines over how we act and perform our duties. When someone is being intentionally evasive, we document everything and then refer that to the client or court. That often leads to an amended server situation where we can send documentation via mail.

 

In other words, you cannot evade being served forever. Even if someone lies on your behalf, thinking they are helping, all that is happening is you are prolonging an event that people want to conclude sooner than later.

 

You should also know that process servers are diligent in their reporting. You can lie to them all you want, but if they are anything like our team, they will document the interaction. While a process server may have no feeling one way or the other on a case, a judge that sees numerous instances of evasion, lies, or mistreatment of a process server may not look favorably on your position when a court date is finally set.

 

Can a Process Server Lie to Me?

 

Process Servers have to follow strict guidelines to maintain their business operations. That includes ethical treatment of people being served documents. While some tactics are understandable to reach a target, you should expect a process server to treat you with dignity, professionalism, and honesty about who they are and what they are doing.

 

We at Houston Process Servers take this seriously because we recognize the importance of our role in the legal system. Courts, law enforcement, legal teams, government agencies, and many other entities rely on our discretion and ability to perform. That includes acting professionally, so there are no errors or reasons for concern in a court. The last thing we would ever want is a case to go south because our team did anything outside the realm of appropriate behavior.

 

This is why we always emphasize the importance of hiring an experienced and reputable service team. Once a situation needs legal services, it does not make sense to risk the outcome because of a process server that lies or doesn’t document the actions of someone being served.

 

If you would like reliable and honest process serving services in the greater Houston, Texas area, use our intake form at Houston Process Servers. We are ready to deliver a timely attempt of your documents, so you get the verification and expertise needed to continue moving forward with your case.

How To Avoid a Process Server in Texas?

Jail Service, Locate Service, Process Service
A process server pointing his finger on you. People avoiding a process server.

A process server is someone who carries out the legal process of serving documents. This can be a formal legal document, such as a summons or subpoena, which requires that it be personally handed to the recipient.

These are working professionals authorized and certified by the Texas JBCC to deliver legal documentation and notices. They have no opinion or interest in the cases involving these documents. That is why asking a process server for legal advice is pointless. Regardless of a process server’s background, experience, or education, they are not legally allowed to offer advice on a case.

The sole responsibility of a process server is to take a document from point A to point B and then provide verification that everything has been conducted legally. So when you try to avoid a process server, you are not stopping action from occurring. If anything, you are only delaying the steps that will happen next.

 

What Happens if You Avoid a Process Server?

When a law firm, government body, or court hires a process server, they initiate legal contact with you. If you try to avoid that contact, it does not stop whatever lawsuit or legal action from happening. There will not be a hearing that is canceled. Or, if it is, it will only be slightly postponed to a near-future date.

This means that trying to avoid a process server will end with you and your legal counsel having less time to prepare for a hearing. That can be detrimental to your case if you need that time to collect evidence in your favor and support your argument about why these legal actions do not hold water.

A far worse situation is that your active attempts to avoid a process server could be taken personally by the judge. This is a dedicated working professional committed to upholding the law. If you demonstrate a disregard for the processes of the law, like not accepting legal documents, they may be less inclined to hear your side reasonably because these actions can be interpreted as disrespectful. It may seem small, but you want as much advantage as possible in a court case.

 

What if I Successfully Avoid a Process Server?

A professional process server is often trained to make multiple attempts at your home, place of business, or any other public location they are allowed to make delivery. If you successfully avoid them after one, two, or more attempts, expect the process server to prepare an affidavit of non-service.

This is a legal notice that, when approved by a court, authorizes what is known as substitute service – also called a 106. You do not want this to happen because it takes control completely out of your hands. A 106 means a judge has deemed your case worthy of simply leaving the legal documents with anyone in your household over 16 years of age or taping the documents to your door.

In that case, a process server will take a photo and instantly update your case so that a court can move forward with your legal situation. In other words, by avoiding a process server, you just waste your time! The documents you hope will disappear will eventually show up at your home, and now you will have to deal with possible negative impacts on your reputation and legal case.

 

 

Is there a Better Option?

Yes! When a professional team of process servers like those at Houston Process Servers attempts delivery of documentation, you should accept it. All they are is a legal delivery service trying to do a well-documented job.

Instead of trying to avoid a process server, call your legal counsel and immediately send them copies of the documents you receive. This way, you have as much time as possible to prepare for what is coming next, and a judge will view you as a rational human willing to go to bat for your side of the story.

Courts appreciate those willing to stand up for their rights and take responsibility for their actions. This places you on equal footing with whoever sent you the documents so you can move forward with legal proof and arguments about your case. Anyone who has had a bad situation with the law knows this is much more preferable.

If you want to learn more about process of serving around the greater Houston, Texas area, fill out our contact form. Houston Process Servers works with law enforcement, courts, government agencies, law firms, and private attorneys to execute services as smoothly and reliably as possible. That is why we have so many return and referral clients. Reach out today and schedule your next delivery with our professional team.

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Related videos

What Exactly Is A Process Server?

Jail Service, Process Service
Same day civil process service

Process Servers are well-known in the legal field. If you are not familiar with the law industry, but you wish to go ahead with a court case, it is important to learn more about what a Process Server is. Then you will be able to seek the assistance of a Process Server as needed and overcome the struggles that you may have to face.

History of Process Servers

Before taking a look at what a Process Server is doing, let’s take a quick look at the history. When you take a look at the constitution, you will notice how service of due process is considered as a privilege in it. In other words, all the people who live in the United States have the right to be informed when they are being summoned. This is clearly illustrated in the Fifth Amendment and sixth amendment of the constitution.

A Process Server would work as a messenger. In other words, Process Server will be able to provide a notification to the individuals who are being summoned to ensure their legal right. In other words, the process serve process would hand over all the legal papers to the defendant. These legal documents are usually handed over by the local county sheriff. However, you cannot expect a sheriff to go the extra mile to hand over the legal papers. If the defendant is not in his address, the sheriff would simply return them. If you are looking forward to get a more effective result than that, you should think about hiring a Process Server.

What services can you get from a Process Server?

The Process Servers are undertaking numerous tasks as of now. For example, they will the court papers, serve the legal documents to the defendants, and even work on document retrieval related work. The main role that you can find in the job description of a Process Server is to serve the legal document to a person or defendant who is linked with a court case.

Upon serving the legal documents, the Process Server will need to provide evidences, which you can use to confirm that the legal papers were correctly handed over. This confirmation will be offered to you in the form of a proof of service or affidavit of service. It has to be notarized by the company or individual that required the legal papers to be served.

All the Process Servers should be licensed to offer the service. On the other hand, it is important for them to follow the appropriate practices as defined within the state when moving forward. This can help them to deliver the best service as possible.

Understanding the importance of a legal process

Process serving is quite important due to many different reasons. The main reason out of them is to ensure that the due process of law is correctly upheld within the country. In addition to that, legal papers are considered as an important aspect of society. Hence, they should be handed over to someone in an appropriate manner.

In case if the legal papers are not handed over, the defendant will not be able to figure out that he is summoned. As a result, there is a possibility for the judge to throw out the entire case as well. Hence, it is your responsibility to make sure that you seek the assistance of a process server and get all the support that is needed at the time of serving legal documents.

Useful Tips To Select The Best Process Server In Houston

Jail Service, Locate Service, Process Service
Process server comes at home a late night

Are you planning to hire a process server in Houston, Texas? Then you will come across a large number of service providers. However, you cannot expect all these service providers to deliver a top-notch experience to you. That’s why it is important to pick the best process server Houston and proceed with obtaining the service.

Here are some useful tips that you can follow to locate the perfect process server Texas.

  Look for references

The very first thing you have to do while searching for a process server is to get references. You can easily ask your relatives, friends or colleagues about process servers whom you can trust. If they had positive experiences with a process server, you will be able to get the recommendations. Based on those recommendations, you can create a list of process servers and then shortlist from there.

Personal recommendations will not just help you to find the best process server in Houston. If someone had a sub-par experience with a process server, you will be getting information about that as well. Hence, you can make sure that you refrain from obtaining the services offered by process server. The personal recommendations will ensure that you locate a process server, who is capable of delivering a great assistance to you, in terms of time, cost and quality work.

         Check with the courts

Another great way to start looking for a process server is to check with the courts. If you cannot find someone who has previous experience in working with a process server, you may try this process. The courts maintain a list of certified and registered private process server, who will be able to deliver support and assistance to you. You can locate a process server out of them and get the papers served correctly.

However, it is important to note that you shouldn’t blindly select a process server from the list that you can get from courts. That’s because it will not offer the best process servers. It is just a list of all the process servers who are registered to offer their services. Hence, you will need to do your own homework and make sure that you locate the ideal process server at all times.

         Experience

At the time of searching for a process server, you should never ignore the years of experience. That’s because the years of experience matters a lot when offering the service. There are numerous things that a process server will be able to learn along with time. You can gain benefits by hiring an individual who is experienced and who can cater to all the needs that you have.

The skills and knowledge that your process server has accumulated along with time will be able to benefit you. In other words, you will have the opportunity to go through the process quickly and end up with saving your time. On the other hand, the process server will make sure that you are kept away from frustrating situations that you may come across at all times as well.

         Check the success rate

Along with experience, you must also take a look at the success rate of process server you select. Then you can keep the peace of mind while you are handing over the job as well. That’s because you know that the process server will be able to deliver assistance you want at all times.

An experienced process server will usually be able to offer services with a guaranteed outcome. That’s because they have all the experience needed to figure out the exact location of hard to find individuals. On the other hand, they have an idea on how to stick to the schedule and ensure the delivery of papers is completed in a timely manner.

You can double check and verify that the process server you hire has been able to maintain a high success rate. Due to the nature of work offered, a process server will not be able to maintain a 100% success rate. However, maintaining a considerably high success rate is a good indication, which shows that you have selected the perfect process server to help you with your needs.

         Take a look at the fees

It is a good idea to take a look at the fees that you will have to pay when obtaining services delivered by the process server Harris County. This doesn’t mean that you should pick a process server, who offers services at the lowest price. Instead, you need to make sure that the services are priced at reasonable rates. Then you can ensure that you are not overpaying to the process server to obtain services offered.

In case if you wish to go through a faster service, you might be asked to spend more money out of your pocket. However, the cost will usually include the number of attempts that the process server will offer. In addition to that, you can also get a clear expectation about turnaround time as well.

         See if you are comfortable in working with the process server

Last but not least, you need to verify whether you are comfortable in working along with the process server near me. The process server should be responsive. One of the main reasons on why you hire a process server is to overcome frustrating situations that are associated with legal processes. Hence, you need to ensure that the process server is not leading you towards additional frustrating situations by being unresponsive.

Final words

Now you are aware of all the factors that need to be evaluated before selecting one of the Houston process server. Always do your homework and it can help you to overcome disappointments that you may come across at the time of working with a process server. The time you spend on this is totally worth it.