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Why You Should Use a Process Server Instead of a Local Sheriff

If you need to serve legal documents to someone, such as a summons, a complaint, or a subpoena, you have a choice: you can use a private process server or a local sheriff. While the sheriff may seem like the easier choice, using a process server is often the better option. Here are a few reasons why.

Expertise

A process server in Florida is a certified professional whose sole job is to serve legal documents. They have experience and expertise in the legal process, and they know how to serve documents properly. They are familiar with Florida’s rules and regulations and know how to navigate the local legal system. Since Florida is one of the few states that regulate their process service industry, using a process server that is familiar with Florida’s complex laws is essential. A local sheriff, on the other hand, is a law enforcement officer whose primary responsibility is to maintain public safety. While they can serve legal documents, it is often not their area of expertise. Using a process server ensures that your documents will be served properly and legally without tying up valuable law enforcement resources.

Speed

Process servers work quickly and efficiently. They are motivated to complete their job as quickly as possible because that is how they earn their living. They will often attempt to serve the documents on the same day they receive them if possible. Sheriffs and their deputies, on the other hand, have other duties that may take priority. They may not be able to serve your documents for several days or even weeks. If you need to serve legal documents quickly, using a process server is usually the best way to go.

Availability

Process servers are available at all hours of the day and night. They are often able to serve documents outside of normal business hours, which can be especially helpful if you need to serve someone who works during the day. Process service units of Sheriff’s departments typically work regular business hours, so if you need to serve documents outside those hours, you may need to wait until someone is available. If you need to serve documents at an odd time or on a weekend, using a process server is your best option.

Tracking

Process servers often use GPS tracking to document their attempts to serve legal documents. They will make multiple attempts to serve the documents, and each attempt will be documented with a time-stamped GPS location. This documentation can be very helpful in court if the recipient claims they were never served. 

Professionalism

Process servers are professionals who take their job seriously. They understand the importance of serving legal documents properly and respectfully. They will do everything they can to ensure that the recipient of the documents is treated with dignity and respect. Sheriffs, while also professionals, may not approach the job of serving legal documents with the same attitude or perspective as a process server. 

Orlando’s Best Choice for Service of Process is Accurate Serve®

While it may be tempting to use a local sheriff to serve legal documents, using a process server is often the better choice. If you need to serve legal documents in the Orlando area, Accurate Serve is ready to help you with all your process service, document retrieval, skip tracing, and diligent search needs. Just call us at 407-868-5992 or send us a work request online to get started today.