I've Been Served With Legal Papers-Now What?

You've been serves with legal papers–Now what?

Review the paperwork, to see if the court requires a reply within a certain time period or, if a court date has already been scheduled. If a reply is required, the allotted time to reply begins the day you receive the notice. If you do not respond within that time frame, the opposition might be able to proceed without providing further notice. If there is a court date listed, you or your lawyer must attend Court that day.

What if I refuse to go to court?

The Court can make a decision based on the information provided, if it can be documented that you have been given proper notice.

The following list details the more common legal notices.

Summons and Complaint

You are being sued. If you don’t file an answer, a default judgment will be entered against you. If you snooze, you lose.

Writ of Garnishment

You have been sued and lost. Your employer or bank will receive this garnishment notice. If you deem the garnishment improper, request a hearing with the judge within ten days.

Subpoena

You are a witness in a case. A litigant (or court) demands you testify.

Restraining Order

A judge issues an order that prevents you from doing something. The order will delineate what you are not allowed to do and how to fight the order. Typically, those served, file papers explaining why the order requires changes or a dismissal. Until decided, you must obey the order.

When a service processor hands you legal paperwork, the Court has successfully notified you of your legal obligation to respond. If befuddled, act wisely and call an attorney for assistance.

If you or someone you know needs more information on a process server, contact the team at Same Day Process Service today.

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