Who can serve papers
Under New Jersey Court Rule 4:4-3, process can be served by the sheriff, a person specially appointed by the court, the plaintiff's attorney or the attorney's agent, or any other competent adult who doesn't have a direct interest in the case. That's why you shouldn't serve papers yourself if you're a party to the case.
How papers are served
The most common method is personal service: handing the papers directly to the person named. New Jersey's rules also allow other methods in some situations, such as leaving the papers at the person's home with a competent member of the household, or serving a business through an officer or registered agent. Which method is valid depends on the case and the court's rules, so your attorney decides what's acceptable.
What a good serve looks like
Attempts at different times of day, including early morning and evening. Each attempt recorded with the date, time, place and result. A description of the person served. A signed affidavit of service filed with the court as proof.
The affidavit of service
After service, the server signs an affidavit (sworn statement) describing when, where and how the papers were served, and who received them. Your attorney files it with the court. Missing or vague details can lead to challenges later, which is why every attempt should be logged.
When the person can't be found
If the person has moved, is avoiding service, or the address is wrong, the server records each attempt and the reason it failed. That attempt log, along with an affidavit of non-service, supports your attorney's next step, which might be a new address search or asking the court to allow another method.
How to give a server the best chance
Provide every known address, including work. Share a photo or description if you have one. Note the best times the person is home. Tell the server about gates, dogs or safety concerns.
Common questions
Can papers be left in a mailbox?
Generally no. Mailboxes aren't a valid method of personal service. Your attorney can tell you what methods the court allows if personal service fails.
How fast can papers be served?
Standard service usually starts within a few business days. Rush and same-day service are available when a deadline is close.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Fees and procedures change; check with the office involved or an attorney for your situation.