So what is a process server? I am often asked by people who think they know what I do, what do I actually do? Many think I am a mixture of James Bond, Liam Neeson, and Reese from A Person of Interest. In reality, I find that no two days are the same. As a result, I have a varied and fascinating way to make a living.
Legal Documents
In any one day, the documents I have to serve will probably cover a wide range of issues. These may relate to monies owed by individuals and especially businesses. Some might be injunctions against those who have committed or are accused of violent or anti-social behaviour. They may have breached existing court orders or be alleged to have abducted one or more children from outside the U.K. Elsewhere, they may be party to existing or proposed care proceedings by a local authority.
Tracing
I might be asked to trace an individual to establish their current location. This could be due to a whole host of reasons. These include monies owed, entitlement to an inheritance or to reunify them with lost family members. It could be insurance related or concern a vacant or derelict property. Here I would use various methods. I might rely on online resources, discreet surveillance or subtle questioning of former neighbours and associates.
Threats of Violence to a Process Server
As a process server, there is always an element of risk. The threat of violence is often present in these situations, especially when you are delivering bad news. Experience tells you how to recognise these situations before they escalate and you can react accordingly. If you aim to treat people as you would wish to be treated, you can probably smooth over most hostile situations.
The role of a process server would not suit everyone. However, for me, it provides a wide and hugely interesting range of daily challenges. Finally, I have to say that variety is the spice of life.