placeholder_200x200

Serving Divorce Papers

Keep your divorce on track with reliable service of process
Service of Process

Understand how service of process impacts divorce so that when you're ready to untie the knot whether by divorce or legal annulment, this legal process won't slow you down.

What does it mean to serve divorce papers?

Serving divorce papers entails officially delivering your court-approved documents to the other party in the suit (usually the person you intend to divorce). People have a right to know they are involved in a lawsuit. You must follow specific steps to maintain the legality of the court proceeding. This is formally known as service of process.

Divorce_Ring_Contemplate
Divorce_Ring_Contemplate

What is Service of Process?

Service of process is the delivery of legal documents to the parties affected by a lawsuit. It's often a required step to get your case to court successfully. The broader term applies to marriage dissolutions as well as other civil lawsuits, where two parties need to settle a dispute, often involving property or money.

Learn more about service of process > 

Service of Process Checklist
Don't let service of process slow down your divorce

What to Know Before Filing For Divorce

1

Research Divorce Laws In Your State

Legal considerations vary by state. For example, some states require couples to complete a long period of separation before filing a summons for divorce, while other states maintain no separation qualifications at all.  Knowing the local laws is the first step to preparing for divorce.

Start your research here.

Divorce_Settle_Discuss
2

Seek Legal Counsel

Having experienced legal counsel available to guide you through the proper process can save you a lot of time and stress. Different resources are available to aid those without the financial means to otherwise hire a lawyer through Equal Justice initiatives. 

Learn more at Legal Services Corporation

LegalCounsel
3

Understand How to Serve Divorce Papers in Your State

Every state has its own laws dictating how legal documents may be served. Understanding which laws apply to you - and how it impacts what you need to do is vital to ensuring that things move forward in your divorce.

Start your research here.

DivorceDocs
Divorce_Settle_Discuss
Why use a divorce process server
In some states, there are specific rules for delivering family law or divorce documents. The laws can be complex and nuanced. Using a qualified process server provider, like ABC Legal Services can save you effort and time.

FAQ for Serving Divorce Papers (i.e. Service of Process in Divorce)

Divorces are often emotional and stressful. However, small mistakes can have serious consequences for your divorce proceeding. Here's how to avoid some common missteps related to serving divorce documents:

Do I need to serve divorce papers on my spouse?

What needs to be served to finalize my divorce?

How do I prove I served my spouse the divorce papers?

How long does it take to serve divorce papers?

Can I serve divorce papers myself?

Who can serve divorce papers?

How long after filing for divorce are papers served?

What is a waiver of service for divorce?

Can you serve divorce papers by email?

Do divorce papers need to be notarized?

Can you serve divorce papers through mail or certified mail?

How much does it cost to serve divorce papers?

What types of documents does ABC Legal deliver?

Can you deliver documents for a debt collection case? How about family law?

quotes
I would highly recommend using ABC Legal Services. I reside in California and needed to have someone served in Kennewick, WA and I located this group on Yelp and was extremely pleased with the quick response and the expertise that was shown. Thank you for your excellent service.
Agnes
Divorce With Dignity
Trustpilot
quotes
Helped me serve papers to my out of state husband. I uploaded my paperwork (which was very easy). Then, I gave them address and best times to deliver. I sent all this on a Sunday night and Tuesday morning I received proof of serve and receipt. Quick, easy and professional. I would recommend this company Thank you
Sharrie
Pro Se
Trustpilot
quotes
Happy Ending...My client went about his business for ten years before discovering that he was never legally divorced. The defendant was particularly difficult to get served. Within just a couple of days of receiving my order she was finally served in Idaho. My client is delighted that he can now proceed with his divorce and marry his new fiance. 
Joseph
O'Leary Law Office
Trustpilot

The information on this page does not constitute legal advice and is for general, informational use. Due to the changeability of laws, the information on this page may not reflect the most recent local laws. Always consult current legal and civil codes in your area for the most accurate information.