There is a lot of flexibility in a process server’s job. It’s one of the things that attracts many people to this profession. Being able to set their own hours and work on their own terms is an appealing benefit for people who need more wiggle room than the Monday through Friday, 9 to 5 schedule offers. But just like everything in life, it’s a give and take. Not following the strict traditional work schedule can also mean that a process server may need to work during more unusual hours, such as the weekend. But is this allowed in Michigan? Let’s find out!
What is a Process Server?
A process server is an individual tasked with delivering legal process (i.e. legal documents) to another person. Process service is a cornerstone of the American legal system, as it ensures that everyone involved in a legal matter are properly informed. Process servers are regulated by the state in which they are working, and state laws on who can and cannot be a process server vary widely. In Michigan, any adult who is not a party to the legal matter may serve process for that legal matter. In other states, such as Florida, the process service industry is much more regulated. In either case, courts rely on the testimony of process servers to determine if a legal matter may proceed or needs to be delayed.
Process Servers Work Every Day of the Week
Some states restrict a process server from working on certain days, such as holidays or Sundays. That is not the case in Michigan. In Michigan, process servers are allowed to serve process any day of the week. Furthermore, they may also serve process at any time of the day or night. This means that a process server can come knocking on your door at 3 a.m. on a Sunday morning…although they probably wouldn’t. Even though process service is allowed 24 hours per day, most process servers still only work during daylight hours when possible.
No Service of Process on Election Days
There is one notable exception in Michigan – election days. Michigan law specifically prohibits serving process to anyone who is eligible to vote on election days. This includes all elections, from presidential on down to local commissioners, and everything in between. However, if sufficient cause is shown, a judge may overrule this law and allow the service.
No Service of Process at Places of Worship
While service of process on Sundays is not prohibited, serving someone at their place of worship, regardless of the day or time, is prohibited. The process server must wait until the person is at least 500 feet away from the place of worship before service can take place. Just like the restriction on service on election days, a judge may order that service be allowed at a place of worship if given sufficient cause.
Detroit’s Best Process Service Agency is Accurate Serve®
For the best process servers in all of Michigan, including the Motor City, look no further than Accurate Serve of Detroit. Our team of talented process servers will work tirelessly, weekdays and weekends, to get your process served to the right person, at the right place, and at the right time. Give us a call at 313-385-3703 or send us a work request online to get started today!