Roman General

Step 6: Guide to Delivering Your Summons

How to Deliver Your Summons

Personal Service

This method involves you, the plaintiff, personally delivering the summons to the other party, known as the defendant. It is a direct and immediate way to ensure the summons is received.

Sheriff's Office

With this method, an officer from the Sheriff's office is responsible for delivering your summons to the defendant. The Sheriff's office is an official entity, and using their services provides added assurance of the summons's proper delivery.

Attorney Assistance

This method involves hiring an attorney or a law firm to handle the service for you. They will ensure that the document is served in accordance with legal requirements and provide you with proof.

Scroll down for more details on delivery options

Where to Deliver Your Summons

Why is delivery also known as "service" important?

Individuals
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General Locations:
  • Residence: Delivering the letter at the individual's home is standard and recommended.
  • Place of Work: Delivery at the workplace is acceptable during working hours.
Service Methods:
  • Direct Delivery: Handing the letter directly to the individual and requesting verification of delivery ensures receipt and proof of receipt.
  • Door Affixing: Only if direct delivery isn't possible, securely affixing the letter to the individual's front door is an alternative but should be witnessed and verified by another person.
  • Electronic Methods: Serving the letter through email, WhatsApp, or Facebook is not advisable as these may not provide verifiable proof of receipt.
Business Entities
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Types of Business Entities:
  • Companies: Serve at the registered office or principal place of business.
  • Partnerships: Serve at the principal place of business.
  • If you don't have that information you can always give the company a call and ask where they accept delivery of legal documents.
Considerations:
  • Vacant Premises: If the business address is vacant or abandoned, try personally delivering the document to the director or partners personally.
  • Authorized Representatives: Ensure you're serving someone with the authority to accept legal documents at the business.
  • Business Hours: Ensure to serve during official working hours.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
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Mistakes:
  • Delivery to an old address.
  • Assuming an unauthorised person will deliver on your behalf correctly.
  • Delivery which leaves the Court doubtful if the other party actually received the letter.
Prevention:
  • Always verify the current address before delivery.
  • Check the company's official registration.
  • Ensure to obtain valid proof of delivery.
  • Follow Up: If using a third-party for service, always check for updates and ensure they have completed the task.
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