Hiring a process server in Ontario is a critical step in any legal proceeding. Whether you’re managing a civil lawsuit, serving family court documents, or enforcing a court order, ensuring legal documents are delivered correctly and on time is essential to the success of your case.
Unfortunately, many individuals and even legal professionals make costly errors when selecting a process server in Ontario. These mistakes can lead to court delays, increased costs, or, worse, case dismissal. At Select Serve and File Process Server Inc., we’ve seen firsthand how these issues unfold and, more importantly, how to avoid them.
Below are the five most common mistakes people make when hiring a process server in Ontario, and how you can avoid them with confidence and clarity.
1. Not Verifying Credentials or Legal Knowledge
Not all process servers are created equal. A frequent mistake is assuming that anyone advertising process serving services has the legal training and knowledge required to serve documents lawfully in Ontario.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Process servers must follow Ontario’s Rules of Civil Procedure, which specify how, when, and where legal documents can be served.
- Improper service can invalidate the process and jeopardize your entire case.
- An untrained server may mishandle time-sensitive documents or fail to complete a valid Affidavit of Service.
How to Avoid It:
- Choose a process server in Ontario with proven experience and legal training.
- Ask about certifications or affiliations with recognized industry associations such as the Ontario Professional Process Servers Association (OPPSA).
- Review client testimonials, legal firm references, or online reviews.
Pro Tip: A professional process server in Ontario will always be transparent about their experience and methods, and should welcome questions about their legal knowledge.
2. Choosing Based Solely on Price
Legal services should never be selected based only on cost. Hiring the cheapest Ontario process server may seem like a cost-saving move, but it often results in incomplete service, legal setbacks, or unexpected fees.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Inexperienced or budget servers may cut corners, increasing the risk of errors.
- Hidden charges often appear for additional attempts or rural service areas.
- If service is invalidated, you’ll need to start over doubling your costs.
How to Avoid It:
- Compare service packages, not just prices.
- Ensure you’re receiving full support: affidavits, skip tracing, real-time updates, and professional conduct.
- Choose a process server in Ontario who prioritizes legal accuracy and efficiency over speed alone.
Pro Tip: A reliable process server offers transparent pricing and delivers peace of mind, not just a lower invoice.
3. Ignoring Service Coverage Area
Not every Ontario process server covers all jurisdictions across the province. This is especially important if you need to serve documents in multiple cities or remote locations.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Some process servers only operate in specific cities or counties.
- You may face higher fees or delays for out-of-area deliveries.
- Hiring multiple servers across different regions can complicate coordination.
How to Avoid It:
- Work with a process server who offers province-wide coverage or extended service areas, including Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, Hamilton, and rural communities.
- Confirm whether they charge travel fees or mileage for remote locations.
Pro Tip: At Select Serve and File Process Server Inc., we offer extensive coverage across Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area, saving you time and simplifying logistics.
4. Overlooking Turnaround Time and Service Speed
In legal matters, timing is everything. A delay of even 24 hours can result in missed hearings, default judgments, or the need to refile documents. Yet, many people forget to ask about turnaround times before hiring a process server in Ontario.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Some servers take days or even weeks to complete standard service.
- Rush or same-day services may not be available.
- Courts enforce strict filing and service deadlines.
How to Avoid It:
- Ask about turnaround times before committing.
- Choose an Ontario process server who offers expedited service options, including same-day or weekend deliveries when necessary.
- Look for a provider that gives real-time updates and digital confirmations.
Pro Tip: Always verify that your process server can meet your deadline before retaining their services.
5. Failing to Request a Legally Valid Affidavit of Service
A completed Affidavit of Service is more than a formality; it’s the legal proof that your documents were properly delivered. Surprisingly, many clients forget to request it, or assume it’s automatically included.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Without a proper affidavit, the court may reject your service of process.
- Incomplete or inaccurate affidavits can lead to procedural delays or legal costs.
- You may need to repeat the service, delaying your case and wasting money.
How to Avoid It:
- Always confirm that the process server includes a court-compliant Affidavit of Service with every delivery.
- Ensure the affidavit includes all required details: date, time, method, location, and recipient information.
- Retain a copy of the affidavit for your own legal records.
Pro Tip: A professional process server in Ontario will proactively file the affidavit or provide it in a timely, court-ready format.
Why Choose Select Serve and File Process Server Inc.?
At Select Serve and File Process Server Inc., we bring over a decade of legal process serving experience across Ontario. Our team is trained in the nuances of the Ontario Rules of Civil Procedure, and we serve legal professionals, businesses, and individuals with equal precision and care.
Our Services Include:
- Legal document delivery anywhere in Ontario
- Rush, same-day, and weekend services
- Detailed affidavits of service
- Skip tracing for evasive defendants
- Document filing and courthouse support
- Transparent pricing and real-time updates
Serving Brampton, Mississauga, Toronto, the GTA, and beyond.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Compromise on Legal Service
Serving legal documents isn’t something to leave to chance. Choosing a professional, experienced process server in Ontario ensures your documents are delivered legally, promptly, and with proper documentation to support your case.
Avoid the common mistakes. Work with a reliable team that understands the legal landscape, meets your deadlines, and protects your interests.
Need a Trusted Process Server in Ontario?
Contact Select Serve and File Process Server Inc. today to request a quote or schedule service. We’re here to help you get it done right the first time.
Citations: Rules of Civil Procedure, R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 194, Government of Ontario. https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/900194
Frequently Asked Questions: Process Server Ontario
Q. What does a process server in Ontario do?
A. A process server in Ontario is a professional who delivers legal documents such as court notices, subpoenas, and summonses to individuals or parties involved in legal actions. This process, called legal process serving, must follow Ontario’s Rules of Civil Procedure to ensure the delivery is legally valid and recognized by the courts.
Q. Is it necessary to hire a professional process server in Ontario?
A. Yes. Hiring a professional process server in Ontario ensures your documents are delivered correctly, on time, and in compliance with legal standards. Professionals are trained to handle sensitive situations, complete Affidavits of Service, and avoid delays that could jeopardize your case.
Q. How does legal process serving work in Ontario?
A. Legal process serving in Ontario involves personally delivering documents to the party being served, or using alternative service methods if the person is evading service. After successful delivery, the server completes an Affidavit of Service, which is then filed with the court as proof.
Q. What happens if someone tries to avoid being served in Ontario?
A. If an individual is evading service, a professional process server in Ontario may use skip tracing, a method of locating individuals through databases, public records, and investigative tools. Courts may also approve substituted service or alternative service methods in such cases.
Q. How much does a process server in Ontario typically cost?
A. The cost of hiring a process server in Ontario varies depending on the urgency, location, and number of attempts needed.
Q. Can I serve legal documents myself in Ontario?
A. You can serve documents yourself only in certain situations and if you’re not a party to the case. However, for most civil, family, or small claims matters, using a process server in Ontario is recommended to ensure proper service and to avoid any legal complications.
Q. Do Ontario process servers work across the GTA?
A. Yes. Many Ontario process servers, including Select Serve and File Process Server Inc., offer process serving across the GTA (Greater Toronto Area) and other parts of the province. Always confirm the service coverage area before hiring.
Q. What is an Affidavit of Service, and why is it important?
A. An Affidavit of Service is a sworn document completed by the process server confirming when, how, and to whom the documents were served. Ontario courts require this as legal proof. Only a trained process server in Ontario can ensure this affidavit is properly completed and court-compliant.
Q. What other services do professional process servers in Ontario offer?
A. Besides legal process serving in Ontario, many professionals offer additional services such as:
– Document filing and retrieval
– Skip tracing
– Rush and same-day delivery
– Court attendance
– Legal courier and administrative support for law firms
These services help streamline the legal process for both individuals and legal professionals.
Q. How do I find a reliable process server in Ontario?
A. Look for:
– Proven experience with Ontario process servers
– Positive reviews and legal references
– Coverage across Ontario and the GTA
– Transparent pricing and professional conduct
A reputable company like Select Serve and File Process Server Inc. offers all of the above, along with real-time updates and compliant documentation.
