Spotting a Fake Process Server

You want the process server you use for your cases to follow all the rules here in Florida. You do not want to give the defendant any reason to claim improper service, which could cause delays, extra expenses, and possibly even a dismissal. Keep an eye out for these telltale signs of a fake process server:

Not certified

The state of Florida requires that all process servers be certified and approved by the judicial circuit in which they plan to work. Pensacola and Escambia county area in Florida’s 1st Judicial Circuit, along with Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, and Walton counties. Anyone attempting to serve process in these counties that are not listed on the 1st Judicial District approved process server list is acting fraudulently.

Leaves process in mailbox

No one other than the mailman and the owner should ever touch a mailbox. In places where process service by mail is allowed, it still must be sent via the post office with a return receipt. 

Leaves process on the porch

Florida law requires that a target be personally served, meaning that the process server must positively identify the target and physically hand them the paperwork. Simply leaving the papers on the target’s porch or pinned to their door is unacceptable.

Serves on Sunday

In Florida, it is illegal to serve process on Sundays. A fraudulent process server who hasn’t completed the required training may not know this and give away their inexperience by attempting service on a Sunday.

Lies about their identity

Process servers in the movies may trick targets by pretending to be someone they’re not, but that is not allowed in Florida. Wearing a disguise, giving a false name, or using fake photos to lure a target online are all deceptive behaviors that indicate the process server is a fraud.

Doesn’t provide proof of service

If the process server you’ve hired doesn’t provide proof of service, you might as well have thrown your money in the trash. If the defendant contests that they were properly served and you have nothing but the word of an uncertified and incompetent process server, your case is likely to be rescheduled or completely dismissed.

Don’t let unscrupulous imposters ruin all the work you’ve put into your cases. Only hire certified, dependable, and reputable process servers like those here at Accurate Serve. We ensure all our servers maintain continuous certification in Florida’s 1st Judicial Circuit and complete all required training. Call (850) 264-2917 today to connect with the best process servers in Pensacola!