Arizona Process Server Practice Exam

What should you do if repeated attempts to serve a defendant are unsuccessful and their employer indicates they have quit?

1. Stop attempting service

2. Contact the individual who hired you for further direction

3. Try serving their neighbors

4. Post a notice at their last known address

The correct answer is: Contact the individual who hired you for further direction

When repeated attempts to serve a defendant are unsuccessful, and their employer indicates that the defendant has quit, the most appropriate action is to reach out to the individual or entity that hired you for further direction. This is important because the person who engaged your services may have additional information or insights regarding the defendant's whereabouts or may have instructions on how to proceed with the service. Taking this step ensures that you are following protocol and maintaining communication with the client. They may have alternative addresses, locations where the defendant might be found, or other leads that could help in successfully completing the service. This collaborative approach not only maximizes the chances of successful service but also keeps the client informed and involved in the process. While stopping attempts at service might seem like a straightforward option, it could prematurely close the case without exhausting all avenues. Trying to serve the defendant's neighbors could lead to misdirection or violate the proper legal parameters for service. Posting a notice at the last known address might also not suffice as it doesn't comply with the standard practices of legal service and could be viewed as insufficient in lieu of direct service attempts. Thus, engaging the individual who hired you is the most strategic and responsible course of action.