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The job of a process server is an important part of the legal process, and if performed properly can prevent court delays and extra lawyer fees by ensuring that those due in court have officially received all necessary legal documents informing them of the legal and court actions taken against them. It can be a challenging job, and for those dedicated to upholding the law, and even in protecting defendants rights, it can also be very rewarding. If you think you have what it takes, read on for all the pertinent information on how to become a process server.
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Introduction
- Do you love research? Do you thrive on the challenge of locating people that don't want to be found, and doing it in support of the law? Are you the type of person that flourishes in uncomfortable situations, someone that is able to succeed where others fail, and all because you know how to confront those that may be consumed with anger and cynicism? If so, you might want to consider being employed as a process server. By following this easy guide, you will be armed with the necessary information on how to become a process server.
Step 1: What is a Process Server?
- A process server is someone that is hired to locate and deliver legal documents to those who are having legal or court action taken against them. The law requires such people be notified and given the appropriate documents in person. If this is not done properly, cases may be delayed or thrown out completely. Therefore, the job of a process server is a vital part of the judicial process, one that, when done correctly, can prevent lengthy court delays and mounting lawyer fees.
- Process servers may be asked to deliver any of the following items:
- SubpoenasProcessServers.com: What does process serving mean?
- ComplaintsProcessServers.com: What does process serving mean?
- WritsProcessServers.com: What does process serving mean?
- Orders to show causeProcessServers.com: What does process serving mean?
- SummonsProcessServers.com: What does process serving mean?
Step 2: Find out the Requirements
- Every location is different, but the basic minimal requirements for most states say you must be over the age of 18, and cannot be a party or member of an organization or corporation that is associated with the case. In addition, the following states require that you obtain a license:
- AlaskaSearchForServers.com: What states require Process Servers to be licensed?
- ArizonaSearchForServers.com: What states require Process Servers to be licensed?
- CaliforniaSearchForServers.com: What states require Process Servers to be licensed?
- IllinoisSearchForServers.com: What states require Process Servers to be licensed?
- MontanaSearchForServers.com: What states require Process Servers to be licensed?
- NevadaSearchForServers.com: What states require Process Servers to be licensed?
- OklahomaSearchForServers.com: What states require Process Servers to be licensed?
- TexasSearchForServers.com: What states require Process Servers to be licensed?
- WashingtonSearchForServers.com: What states require Process Servers to be licensed?
- Many states require that you:
- Pass a written examinationSearchForServers.com: Rules of Civil Procedure
- Live in that state for a specified amount of time, usually a yearSearchForServers.com: Rules of Civil Procedure
- Be employed as a constable or sheriffRominger Legal: About Process Servers & The Process Server Directory
- A list of individual state requirements can be found here by scrolling down to the bottom of the page.
Step 3: Skills
- Do you have the necessary skills to become a process server? It is not an easy job, and all it takes is making one mistake for you to tarnish your reputation, or reflect badly on the company that employs you. This is why it is paramount that you not only meet the official requirements of the job, but that you also possess the necessary skills that are conducive to a process server's success. You should:
- Be organized
- Have excellent people skills
- Be able to problem solve
- Have strong investigative skills
- Have a "sense" about people
- Be able to confront intimidating people
- Be persistent. Sometimes it will take multiple times to successfully serve an individual.SearchForServers.com: Become a Process Server
- Be able to use surveillance techniques
- Flexibility - willing to work at odd hours. This includes being available to work through the night as well as weekends.SearchForServers.com: Become a Process Server
- Efficient - know how to prioritize time. This includes being able to plan your routes accordingly. Get to know the areas in which you are serving.SearchForServers.com: Become a Process Server
Step 4: Gain Experience
- Gaining experience is essential for the aspiring process server. You can:
- If you are still in high school, volunteer during the summer at a local law firm. This will give you an overall view of the legal process and court orders. It will also present you with the perfect opportunity to ask questions and gain contacts.
- While in college, consider doing an internship in the legal services industry. You can intern at a law firm, work for a judge, work for a private investigator or process serving firm. This will provide you with invaluable experience. It will also give you the opportunity to get excellent recommendations from people you are working with at the company.
- Work or volunteer at the law school for your college. Get to know the professors. Make connections. Ask questions. Learn all you can!
Step 5: Get a Job
- Now it is time to search for a job and start sending out your resumes.
Finding Job Opportunities
- There are many routes to take as you search for a job as a process server. You can:
- Search online for process server jobs. Contact companies directly from their websites.
- Use the yellow pages. Contact processing and other legal companies that might hire process servers or be able to direct you to ones that may.
- Join an Association. There are many associations catering to private investigators and process servers. They often require a membership fee, but are a great way to make contacts for employment and get yourself listed in their membership directory. Often, those seeking process servers will find them by searching those listed in these types of accredited associations.
- Contacting law offices or private investigator firms directly can help lead you to other possible contacts and jobs. These firms may not be hiring, but they can direct you to places and people that might. They are great connections to have.
Places You Can Work
- Places that hire process servers include:
- Process serving company
- Legal services company
- Law offices
- Private investigator firms
- Freelance work
Conclusion
- Becoming a process server is a great way to get involved in law enforcement and judicial services without having to acquire an extensive educational background first. The money is decent, and if you enjoy working odd hours and the excitement of tracking people down, then you have found the perfect occupation to pursue.
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