Connecticut State Process Server

$169 Routine - $209 Rush

In Connecticut, process serving refers to the legal procedure by which a person (the "server") delivers legal documents to a defendant, witness, or other party involved in a legal action. Here are the key rules and guidelines for process serving in Connecticut:

1. Who Can Serve Process?

Authorized individuals: Process may be served by a sheriff, constable, or any disinterested person who is at least 18 years old.
Exclusions: Attorneys representing a party in the case are not allowed to serve process.

2. Methods of Service

Connecticut law allows for several methods of service, depending on the type of case and the circumstances:

Personal Service: Documents must be handed directly to the person being served. This is the most common and preferred method.
Service by Leaving with a Person of Suitable Age: If personal service cannot be made, the process server may leave the papers with a person of suitable age and discretion at the defendant’s home or business. This person must be informed of the nature of the papers.
Service by Mail: In some cases, service may be completed by sending the documents via certified mail with return receipt requested. This is often used in civil cases, but only if the court permits this method.
Service by Publication: If the defendant cannot be located, service by publication in a local newspaper may be authorized by the court. This method is typically used when the defendant is evading service or cannot be located after reasonable attempts.

3. Service of Specific Documents

Summons and Complaint: These must generally be served on the defendant personally or by leaving them with a person of suitable age at the defendant's residence or place of business.
Writ of Execution: If the court orders a writ of execution (e.g., in cases involving judgments), it may be served on the defendant personally or through an authorized official, such as a sheriff.

4. Proof of Service

The person who serves the process must provide proof of service, typically in the form of a Return of Service or an affidavit. This document details:

The date, time, and method of service.
The name of the individual served (or their description, if service was made by leaving the papers with someone else).

The proof of service must be filed with the court.

5. Service on a Corporation or Partnership

For a corporation, service can be made by delivering the documents to an officer, director, or agent authorized to accept service.
For a partnership, service can be made to any partner or the managing agent of the partnership.

6. Service on Government Entities

If a suit involves a state or local government, additional procedures apply. Generally, the process must be served on the Attorney General's office for state matters or the designated official for local government entities.

7. Time Limit for Service

The summons must be served within 30 days after it is issued. However, the court may grant an extension if necessary.

8. Exceptions and Special Circumstances

Incapacity: If the defendant is incapacitated, service may be made on the person’s guardian or conservator.
Minors: In the case of minors, the service is typically made on the parent or guardian, and a court-appointed guardian ad litem may also need to be served.