- refers to the manner in which the opposing party receives notice that a case is being filed against him/her This must be completed in accordance with law in order for the case to be heard and be binding against the opposing party
Summons, Complaint, and often other papers are given to the Defendant, and a Proof of Service is filed with the court; usually done by process server, may be done by registered mail, may need to be done by publication, or the Defendant may sign an acknowledgment that the papers were received
The actual act of presenting the defendant or respondent in a lawsuit with a summons notifying him or her of the lawsuit Also generally includes providing the defendant or respondent with a copy of the actual complaint or petition in the lawsuit The service of process is done either personally or through the mail
Formally notifying the defendant that a suit has been filed against the defendant, made by certified mail, or by personal service, or by substituted service
Notifying a person that he or she has been named as a party to a lawsuit or has been accused of some offense Process consists of a summons, citation or warrant, to which a copy of the complaint is attached
The delivery of a citation by either a sheriff, constable, or a private process server A copy of the Petition for Divorce or Petition to Modify will be attached to the citation You might also be served with notices of hearings, deposition notices or temporary orders such as restraining orders