What Qualities Should I Look for in a Process Server?
Using a credible process server in Florida isn’t just highly recommended… It’s the law! Florida’s counties strictly regulate who is allowed to serve process here, and if you use an illegitimate process server, any service provided will be invalid and your case could even get thrown out! Make sure any process server that you hire checks off all of the following boxes:
Meets State & Local Requirements
Broward, Monroe, and Miami-Dade counties all have different requirements for approving and certifying process servers. Broward and Monroe counties require that all process servers be approved by the local Sheriff’s office, while Miami-Dade County requires that the server be certified by Florida’s 11th Judicial Circuit.
Sheriff’s deputies are also allowed to serve process in Florida.
Regardless of who approves the process server, the requirements are very similar all over Florida:
- Be 18 years or older
- Have no mental disability
- Be a Florida resident
- Have a clean background and criminal history
- Possess a Certificate of Good Conduct filed with the court or sheriff’s office
- Passage of a training course and exam
- Post a surety bond
Knowledgeable
Reputable process servers are very knowledgeable about laws and current trends related to process serving in their location. Red flags that you’re dealing with an illegitimate process server include:
- They wear a disguise or lie about their identity while serving process
- They give process recipients advice about their cases
- They threaten or try to intimidate process recipients
- They engage in illegal activities while serving, such as breaking and entering
Don’t risk giving the defendant grounds for dismissal because you used a disreputable process server! All of our servers at Accurate Serve® in Plantation, Miami, and Key West have the knowledge and experience needed to handle your case legally, efficiently, and with integrity.
Experience
As with any industry, experience teaches more than anything else. Always ask about prior experience and professional references before hiring a process server. If the references don’t check out, consider using a different server.
Accurate Serve® has been helping attorneys and their firms with valid process service since 2009. Our local servers know the ins and outs of the serving process in south Florida. Check out our reviews here and see why we’re well-respected nationwide! If you are located outside of the Miami-Dade/Key West area, visit theaccurateservefranchise.com to find your local office.