Process servers are essential to keeping Florida’s court systems running smoothly. They ensure that everyone is informed about their upcoming court dates, eviction proceedings, or even sensitive business information. They must use intelligence, tact, and creativity to find and serve process recipients from all walks of life. Despite their freedom in locating someone, there are specific rules they must follow.
Process Servers Can Contact People You Know
Friends, family members, even someone who frequently interacts with your social media posts… process servers can contact them all when searching for you. This tactic often proves successful, as most people reach out to the process server themselves after hearing about it from someone they know.
But They Can’t Harass Anyone
Although a process server can contact people, they cannot harass or threaten them to obtain information. They are prohibited from committing any crimes while serving process, such as trespassing, breaking and entering, property destruction, or any other illegal activities.
Process Servers Can Contact Your Employer
Yes, a process server can call your boss! This is typically done only if you’ve been difficult to locate, but it is entirely permissible in the state of Florida. Once they make contact, they can arrange a time to deliver the process to your supervisor, who will then pass it on to you. Once the process server hands the paperwork to the supervisor, you are considered served under state law.
But They Can’t Just Show Up Unannounced
Process servers are not allowed to just show up at your job without prior notification. This includes approaching you in the parking lot or anywhere else outside. If they do, the service is invalid and can be dismissed in court.
Process Servers Can Investigate Your Online Presence
If you enjoy posting on social media, be aware that a process server can view anything you post publicly. If you have geotags activated on your pictures or regularly tag locations in your posts, the process server may be able to locate you based on that information.
But They Can’t Lie to You About Who They Are
Process servers should never attempt to get someone to “friend” or follow a fake profile, interact under a fake name, or engage in any form of deceit online. Just as they are not allowed to lie about who they are in person, they are expected to maintain ethical behavior online.
Process Servers Can Serve You Any Day, Anytime
Process servers can officially serve you at any time on almost any day, even in the middle of the night if necessary. Many people believe that working the night shift and sleeping during the day will prevent the process server from finding them, but this can actually make them easier to locate since fewer people are out and about at that time of night.
Except on Sundays
The only exception in Florida is Sundays. Sundays are considered a day of rest for the legal system as a whole, so no service of process is allowed.
Quality Process Servers in Pensacola
If you need a reputable, quality process service agency in the Pensacola area, trust the experts at Accurate Serve® to handle your case quickly, efficiently, and professionally. Call us at (850) 264-2917 or send us a work request online to get started today!
