Frequently Asked Questions
What is process serving and why is it required?
Process serving is the formal delivery of legal documents — such as summonses, complaints, subpoenas, and court orders — to a party involved in a legal proceeding. It is required by the U.S. Constitution's Due Process Clause (14th Amendment) to ensure that every person receives proper notice of legal actions affecting their rights. Without valid service, a court generally cannot exercise jurisdiction over the defendant.
Do you serve process in all 50 state capitals?
Yes. Capital City Process Service maintains a network of trained, professional process servers in every state capital across the United States. Whether you need service in Montgomery, Alabama or Cheyenne, Wyoming, we have local servers ready to act on your behalf.
How quickly can you serve documents after receiving them?
Standard service attempts begin within 24 to 48 hours of receiving your documents. We also offer same-day rush service in most capital cities for time-sensitive matters. Contact us at (202) 918-3274 to discuss expedited options and availability.
What types of documents can you serve?
We serve all types of legal documents including summonses, complaints, subpoenas (trial, deposition, and duces tecum), writs, orders to show cause, restraining orders, divorce papers, eviction notices, demand letters, and any other documents requiring formal service under applicable rules of civil procedure.
How do I submit documents for service?
You can submit documents by email, fax, or through our secure online portal. We accept PDF and scanned copies for initial processing. For documents requiring original signatures, we can arrange secure courier pickup. Call (202) 918-3274 or email us to get started.
What happens if the person cannot be found?
If initial service attempts are unsuccessful, we offer skip tracing and locate services to find hard-to-reach individuals. If the person still cannot be located after diligent search, we provide a detailed Declaration of Due Diligence that you can file with the court to request alternative service methods such as service by publication.
What proof of service do you provide?
We provide a signed, notarized Affidavit of Service (or Declaration of Service, depending on jurisdiction) that includes the date, time, and location of service, a physical description of the person served, GPS coordinates, and any relevant details. This document is court-admissible and meets the evidentiary standards of all state and federal courts.
Are your process servers licensed and insured?
Yes. All of our process servers are licensed, bonded, and insured in the jurisdictions where they operate. In states that require registration (such as California, Arizona, and Illinois), our servers maintain current registrations. We carry professional liability insurance to protect both our clients and our team.
Can you serve a business or corporation?
Absolutely. We serve corporations, LLCs, partnerships, and other business entities through their registered agents, officers, managing members, or other persons authorized to accept service under the applicable state's rules. We verify registered agent information through the Secretary of State's office before attempting service.
What are your service areas beyond the state capital?
While we specialize in state capital cities, our network extends throughout each state. We can arrange service in suburban areas, rural counties, and neighboring cities surrounding each capital. Contact us with the specific address and we will confirm coverage and pricing.
Do you handle federal court service requirements?
Yes. We are well-versed in Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 4 and its requirements for service in federal cases. We handle service for U.S. District Courts, U.S. Bankruptcy Courts, and other federal tribunals. Our affidavits comply with federal evidentiary standards.
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
If you cancel a service request before any attempts have been made, we provide a full refund minus a small administrative fee. Once our server has made an attempt, fees for completed attempts are non-refundable. If we are unable to complete service after all contracted attempts, we provide a detailed report of all efforts made and can discuss next steps.