Self Help FAQ

Steps Of Service

Documents Dispatched

After order is placed, we send your documents to the nearest qualified process server.

Service Attempts Made

We carry out attempts in accordance with all local rules and regulations.

Updates Available Online

See details in your secure account anytime, including notes from your process server.

Service is Complete

Once we deliver the documents in accordance with court rules, service is complete.

Proof of Service is Complete

We provide proof of service in your account—and by mail where required.

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ABC Secure Account

What can I do with my ABC Legal account?

Your secure account is your all-access pass to service of process by America's most trusted process server. Invite your entire team to the account where you can:

Place orders for service nationwide
View case progresses live
Set notification preferences
Manage payment preferences
Download proof of service

and more! Discover all the features of your secure account at abclegal.com/start.

Where do I create my account?

Create a free account today at: https://secure.abclegal.com/abc/customer/signup

Tracking Your Order

Where are my documents?

If you have already placed an order, can track the status of your documents through our secure online portal. Simply log in to your ABC Legal account to view real-time updates on the progress of your document handling and delivery.

Will I be notified when documents are served?

Yes, we will notify you as soon as your documents are served. Notifications will be sent directly to your email or by text message, depending on your notification preferences. You can also check the status at any time through your secure account.

How many attempts does service of process take?

Every serve is different and can be impacted by multiple factors. At ABC Legal, your process server will generally attempt to deliver your documents 2-3 times per week until successful, or until they have received enough information to indicate they will not be successful at delivering to that location. Attempts to serve documents occur at varying times of the day and on different days of the week to maximize the likelihood of successful service.

What if the defendant doesn’t accept documents?

If the defendant refuses to accept the documents, our process servers will use all legally available means to ensure service is completed according to state regulations. This may include leaving the documents at the residence with another adult of suitable age and discretion, or posting the documents in a visible place on the property, as permitted by law.

Proof of Service

How do I receive my proof of service?

Once service has been completed, you will receive your proof of service in your secure account. If you require a physical copy, please request it through our portal, and we will mail it to your registered address.

How long does it take to receive proof of service?

Typically, proof of service is generated and sent within 24-48 hours after the documents have been successfully served. Delays may occur if additional information or clarification is needed.

What is in my proof of service?

Your proof of service document includes all the key details of the service process, such as the date and time of service, the name of the person who accepted the documents (if applicable), the address at which documents were served, collected photo and GPS evidence, and the signature of the process server. This document acts as a legal confirmation that the documents have been delivered according to the requirements set by the court.

What do I do with my proof of service?

Once you receive your proof of service, it’s important to review it and then file it with the court to complete the service process. The proof serves as evidence that the other party has been properly notified of the legal proceedings.

General Questions

Where does ABC Legal serve?

ABC Legal provides service of process across the United States in all 50 states. Our network of over 3,000 experienced process servers ensures unrivaled peace of mind in coverage.

How long does service of process take?

Due to the nature of service, the duration for service of process can vary widely based on location, availability of the recipient, and specific court deadlines. There is no guarantee of a timeline in which documents will be served. Generally, most documents are completed within 5 to 7 business days of the first attempt being made. Expedited “Rush” services are available if you require faster delivery. Simply select “Rush” during the order process.

What if the defendant is not at the address I provided?

If the defendant is not present at the provided address, we will make additional attempts to serve at alternative times or days. Our process servers will also investigate to determine if the address is still valid. If it appears the defendant has moved or the address is incorrect, we will contact you for further instructions.

Can I drop documents off in person?

Documents can not be dropped of in person to any ABC Legal office. Documents can only be uploaded via your secure account through drag and drop, or a direct upload. Please ensure documents uploaded and information provided is correct.

When does ABC Legal use a Sheriff for service?

Based on our 50 years of experience, ABC chooses to use a sheriff when they are the best option for the specific type of work, the area around the country, or a dangerous situation. By volume, ABC Legal uses the sheriff less than 1% of all ABC Legal work.

ABC Legal has direct relationships with Sheriffs nationwide and has internal experts that manage the process from start to finish—so you don’t have to. When we use the Sheriff for our clients, it’s a real time-saver. You don’t have to coordinate the serve, work with the Sheriff for payment, make no calls or emails to find out when the Defendant has been served, or work to obtain your proof of service. We do that for you. Plus, you have the benefit of our website, so you have everything in one place to easily download your Proof of Service. If your job is in the hands of the Sheriff, it’s in a good place.

To learn more, please visit our page on Sheriff Service.

How does ABC Legal handle Statutory fees?

We manage the requirement of statutory checks and provide the fee at the time of service. Your form of payment will be charged separately for the required fee + $5 for processing.

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