Frequently asked questions.
The basics of process service in Missouri, and how our mass-tort service works.
Process service basics
What is a summons?
A summons is a document issued by a court that notifies a person that a legal action has been started and that, by law, they need to be informed about it.
What is a subpoena?
A subpoena is a court order requiring someone to appear, produce documents and/or testify.
What is an affidavit of service?
An affidavit of service is completed by the process server and records the date and time a paper was served and by whom. It is notarized and filed with the court.
Where does process service come from?
It comes from the Due Process Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The Fifth Amendment provides that no person shall "be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law," and proper notice of a legal action is a core part of due process.
What does a process server do?
A process server delivers legal documents, most often summonses and subpoenas for records, depositions, court appearances or notice of a lawsuit, to the correct people. After serving the papers, the server completes an affidavit of service, which is notarized and filed with the court.
Who can serve process in the City of St. Louis?
Process servers in the City of St. Louis (22nd Judicial Circuit) must take and pass a training course administered by the Sheriff of the City of St. Louis. Applicants must be at least 21, have a high school diploma or GED and no criminal record, and carry errors and omissions insurance. Check with the Sheriff's office for current requirements.
Mass tort & bulk service
How many defendants can you handle in one case?
Cases routinely run from 20 to 200 defendants. Send the complete defendant list and we break it down by city.
Where do you serve?
Nationwide. We work with servers in most major city centers across the United States, plus Canada and internationally. Locally, we cover St. Louis, eastern Missouri and the Illinois Metro East.
Who actually serves the papers?
Only licensed and insured process servers. In the St. Louis region, service is handled by our own licensed special process servers.
How is mass-tort service priced?
By volume. Because we already serve at high volume, we can offer lower rates, and the rate depends on the size of the case. Call (314) 775-4948 or submit your case for a quote.
What do we get back?
Returns for every defendant, each audited before it leaves our office, so what you file with the court is accurate.