Verify the address
Confirm ownership, occupancy, employment, mailing information, unit number, and whether the target still uses the location.
Attorney Resource Center
What Happens When Someone Avoids Service?
A process server can vary lawful timing, confirm identifying information, document attempts, and report obstacles. Counsel decides whether further attempts, research, additional time, or court-authorized alternatives are appropriate.
- Massachusetts-focused guidance
- Official-source references
- Practical assignment planning
Key Considerations
Plan the assignment carefully
Assignment Checklist
Information that supports efficient service
- Complete, final document set
- Exact recipient name and legal capacity
- Best known service address and alternate addresses
- Applicable deadline and urgency
- Requested method and special instructions
- Reliable identifying and access information
- Attorney or staff reporting contact
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens When Someone Avoids Service?
Can papers simply be left when someone refuses to open the door?
The answer depends on the governing method and facts. A server should not improvise beyond lawful authority and assignment instructions.
Is avoiding the door enough for alternate service?
Not automatically. Courts determine whether the required showing has been made. Counsel should review the governing rule and evidentiary requirements.
Can skip tracing guarantee a current address?
No. Research produces leads and corroborating information, not a guarantee that a person will be present or legally servable at a location.
What should an attorney provide for a difficult serve?
Provide all known addresses, identifying information, prior attempt history, deadlines, safety concerns, and any facts suggesting a particular schedule or location.
Attorney Process Serving
Ready to submit the assignment?
Send complete documents, recipient information, deadline, and service instructions.