Server's Corner

Understanding the Process Serving Timeline and What Clients Can Expect

When you’re involved in a legal case, timing is everything. Whether it’s a civil lawsuit, a divorce filing, or a court summons, the legal process can’t officially begin until the other party has been properly served. That’s where we come in.

At Roland Process Service and Investigations, we know that waiting for confirmation your documents have been served can feel stressful—especially when court deadlines are looming. So, let’s break down what the process serving timeline really looks like and what you can expect from start to finish.

Step 1: Receiving and Reviewing the Documents

The timeline begins when you provide us with the documents that need to be served—such as summonses, complaints, subpoenas, or eviction notices.

Our team immediately reviews your paperwork to:

• Ensure all necessary forms are included.
• Confirm the service requirements (some documents require personal service, others allow substitute service).
• Verify the address and details of the person or business being served.

We’ll also discuss any special instructions or deadlines to make sure everything is handled in compliance with state and local laws.

Step 2: The First Attempt

Once the documents are ready, our professional process servers get to work. We make the first attempt as quickly as possible—often within 24 to 48 hours of receiving the assignment.

Depending on the case and location, we may attempt service at:

• The person’s home or last known address
• Their place of work
• Or another verified location

If the first attempt isn’t successful (for example, the person isn’t home), don’t worry—it’s part of the process.

Step 3: Follow-Up Attempts and Diligent Efforts

Process serving isn’t always straightforward. Sometimes, it takes multiple attempts to successfully serve someone. At Roland Process Service and Investigations, we make every effort to locate and serve the individual properly, including:

• Visiting at different times of day or on different days
• Speaking with neighbors or colleagues when appropriate
• Running skip traces or background checks if the person has moved

These diligent efforts not only increase the chance of success—they also demonstrate to the court that we’ve taken all reasonable steps to serve the individual.

Step 4: Proof of Service

Once service has been completed, we provide you with a Proof of Service (Affidavit of Service)—an official document verifying that the papers were delivered properly and in accordance with the law.

This proof is crucial because it allows your case to move forward. Without it, the court can’t proceed. We make sure your proof of service is accurate, signed, and delivered promptly so your timeline stays on track.

Step 5: Typical Timeline Expectations

The entire process serving timeline can vary depending on factors like the person’s availability, location, and cooperation—but here’s a general idea:

• Routine Service: 3–7 business days
• Rush Service: Within 24–48 hours
• Difficult/Skip Trace Cases: May take 1–2 weeks or longer depending on the circumstances

At Roland Process Service and Investigations, we always communicate clearly so you know where things stand every step of the way.

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Why Choose Roland Process Service and Investigations?

When you hire us, you’re not just getting someone to “drop off papers.” You’re getting a dedicated legal partner who understands the importance of accuracy, timeliness, and professionalism.

We pride ourselves on:

• ✅ Fast and reliable service
• ✅ Transparent updates and communication
• ✅ In-depth knowledge of state and federal serving laws
• ✅ Commitment to protecting your case’s integrity and deadlines

Legal cases run on timelines, and process serving is often the first step that sets everything in motion. Understanding how the process works—and trusting an experienced professional to handle it—can make the difference between a smooth case and a stressful delay.

At Roland Process Service and Investigations, we make sure your documents are served promptly, properly, and professionally, keeping your case moving forward without a hitch.

Contact us today to schedule your service or learn more about how we can assist with your legal document delivery needs.

By Roland Process Service & Investigations Staff 11-1-2025