In any legal case, the entire process rests on one critical first step: the service of process. Hiring an inexperienced or unprofessional process server is a mistake that can lead to case dismissals, expensive delays, and serious legal challenges. The stakes are simply too high for a gamble.
We’re sharing a five-point checklist for legal professionals in Orlando, Kissimmee, and Lake Mary. Use it to select a reliable partner and ensure your case starts on a solid foundation.
Critical Checks for Any Orlando Process Server
Are They Certified for the Correct Judicial Circuit?
Process servers in Florida must be approved by the Chief Judge of the specific judicial circuit where they work. For this area, that means certification in the Ninth Judicial Circuit for Orange and Osceola Counties and the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit for Seminole County. Using a server that is not certified in the correct jurisdiction can make the service completely invalid, stopping your case before it even begins.
According to the Florida Courts system, each judicial circuit maintains its own certification requirements and oversight procedures for process servers operating within their jurisdiction.
Do They Understand Florida’s Serving Laws?
A professional server needs to know more than just a street address. They require a deep understanding of Florida law, especially Chapter 48 of the Florida Statutes. This includes strict rules for substituted service, like only serving a co-resident who is over 15 years old. A server’s ignorance of the law is no excuse and can lead to a judge throwing out the service.
The Florida Rules of Civil Procedure provide additional guidance on proper service methods and requirements that professional process servers must follow.
What Technology and Tools Do They Use?
Modern legal work requires modern tools. A professional firm should offer a secure online portal for tracking your case, GPS verification to prove service attempts, and skip tracing services to locate hard-to-find individuals. A lack of technology means no real-time updates for you and less verifiable proof of their efforts.
The Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts emphasizes the importance of proper documentation and verification in process serving procedures.
Are They Members of Professional Associations?
Membership in organizations like the National Association of Professional Process Servers (NAPPS) or the Florida Association of Professional Process Servers (FAPPS) shows a commitment to high ethical standards. These groups require members to follow a strict code of conduct and stay current on best practices. A server without these affiliations may not be dedicated to the industry’s professional standards.
Professional licensing and continuing education requirements help ensure process servers maintain their knowledge of evolving legal standards, as outlined by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
How Do They Document and Communicate Attempts?
Proper service is not just about delivering the documents. It is about documenting every single attempt. This is essential for proving due diligence if the service is challenged in court. Your process server must provide a detailed, sworn affidavit, known as a Return of Service, that is accurate and can withstand legal scrutiny. Weak documentation puts your case at risk.
The Florida Bar Association provides resources on proper documentation standards that legal professionals should expect from their process servers.
How Accurate Serve® Orlando Delivers Confidence
Accurate Serve® of Orlando was built to meet these critical standards. Our process servers are certified in the 9th and 18th Judicial Circuits and receive extensive training on Florida’s Rules of Civil Procedure. We provide clients with a 24/7 online portal to see real-time, GPS-verified status updates. As active members of both NAPPS and FAPPS, our team is held to the highest ethical standards. We provide ironclad, detailed Returns of Service to protect the integrity of your case.
Need a Reliable Process Server in Orlando, Kissimmee, or Lake Mary?
Do not risk your case by choosing the wrong partner. For service you can depend on, contact Accurate Serve® of Orlando today. Send us a work request online to get started.
Orlando – (407) 868-5992
Kissimmee – (407) 961-7874
Lake Mary – (407) 327-8233
