Substituted Service
Definitions
- (n.) A method of serving legal documents to a party by delivering them to another responsible individual at the party’s residence or place of business when direct service is impracticable.
When the defendant was evading personal service, the court authorized substituted service by leaving the summons with a family member at the defendant’s home.
Forms
- substituted service
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Substituted service balances due process requirements with practical difficulties in locating the party; procedural rules often specify acceptable methods and authorized agents for such service.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.