Service of Process in Missouri & Nationally
Need Trusted Process Servers in St. Louis or Nationally? Get Prompt Service Today!
In the United States legal system, everyone has the right to be notified of any legal action being taken against them. To fulfill this right and need, they must be given what is known as a process, or the documentation that describes the legal action in full detail. The service of process is the action of actually serving that documentation and verifying that it was, in fact, served so that it cannot be claimed later, in court or otherwise, that the person served never received the paperwork.
Contact us at (888) 658-8081 to learn more about how our process servers in St. Louis can assist you.
Understanding Process Server Laws & Resources in Missouri
- National Association of Professional Process Serving
- Process Server Requirements by State
- Missouri Rules for Issuance and Service of Summons or Other Process
- Process Server License Information for Missouri
- Missouri License for Special Process Servers
Get in Touch with Markell & Associates for Expert Process Serving
If you are in need of assistance with the service of process, you must take action to ensure that you place the documents into reliable hands. At Markell & Associates, Inc., all of our process servers have met the detailed requirements in the states of Missouri and Illinois, and beyond. In addition, we have been licensed by the St. Louis Sheriff's department! Our team has more than 60 years of combined experience and can help you get your court documents served. As a paralegal, attorney, or legal counsel, we can help you accomplish your goals.
Call (888) 658-8081 or send us a message online to learn more about our St. Louis process servers and how we can best assist you. We serve clients in Missouri and nationwide.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the legal requirements for serving documents in St. Louis?
In St. Louis, legal documents must be served in accordance with Missouri state laws. This typically involves delivering the documents to the recipient in person or through an authorized agent. Our team is well-versed in local regulations and ensures that all serving procedures comply with the law.
How long does it take to serve documents in St. Louis?
The time it takes to serve documents in St. Louis can vary depending on factors such as the location of the recipient and the complexity of the case. However, we strive to serve your documents as efficiently as possible, often within days of receiving your request. Our rush serving option is also available for urgent cases.
What happens if a defendant refuses to accept service of process?
If a defendant refuses to accept service of process, the process server may attempt to serve the documents by alternative methods, such as substitute service or certified mail. In some cases, the court may grant permission to serve the defendant by publication.
What is the cost of service of process in Missouri?
The cost of service of process in Missouri can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the location of the defendant, and the method of service used. It's best to consult with a process server or an attorney to get an accurate estimate.
What happens if a defendant cannot be found for service of process?
If a defendant cannot be found, you may need to seek alternative methods of service, such as publication or substitute service. It's essential to consult with an attorney to determine the best course of action.
Our Process Serving Methods: Personal, Substitute, and Publication
The delivery of your court documents and other legal paperwork is crucial for the validity of your case, claim, or lawsuit. At Markell & Associates, Inc., our St. Louis process servicers are completely familiar and well-versed in the three primary methods for the service of process: actual (personal), substituted, and publication.
- Personal or actual service: Our process server will hand-deliver the documents to the defendant’s home or workplace. This is the preferred method because it is effective, direct, and generally over quickly.
- Substitute service: Finding non-direct methods to get the process served, we can use substitute service to get the job done. This may involve leaving the documents with a responsible adult, like a manager or coworker, affixing a copy to the entrance of the defendant’s home, or mailing it to them.
- Service by publication: As a last resort, our process servers can publish a notice in local newspapers that the intended recipient may read. This will only be done when all other methods fail and it is clear that the defendant is trying to hide from their responsibilities. When done correctly, publication can be accepted as service in court.
Timeline for Process Serving: What to Expect
Typically it takes around five to seven days for the service to be completed. However, the time can vary depending on the process server and outside factors out of their control. For example, the recipient may be hard to find or they are avoiding being served. For the best service, you should hire an experienced and efficient server.
