If you have ever found yourself in a legal dispute that originated in another state, you may need to serve someone in Florida with out-of-state process. This can be a complex process, but understanding Florida’s service of process rules can make it easier. In this blog post, we’ll explore what out-of-state process is, the rules for serving out-of-state process in Florida, and what UIDDA Florida means for serving out-of-state subpoenas in Florida.
What is Out-of-State Process?
Out-of-state process refers to legal documents that originate in one state but need to be served on someone who is located in another state. This can include subpoenas, summons, and other legal notices. If you need to serve someone in Florida with out-of-state process, you will need to follow Florida’s service of process rules.
Service Must Follow Florida’s Service of Process Rules
In Florida, service of process is governed by Chapter 48 of the Florida Rules of Civil Practice & Procedure. These rules outline the requirements for serving legal documents on individuals, businesses, and other entities. When it comes to serving out-of-state process in Florida, you must follow these rules in order for the service to be considered valid.
There are several methods of service that can be used in Florida, including personal service, substituted service, and service by mail. However, in Florida, all process must be served by a process server who is certified or otherwise approved to work in the area where the process is being served. Process server certification is different in each county (although counties joined together in judicial circuits may opt to use one centralized process server certification program managed by the judicial circuit instead). In Leon County, process servers can be certified by Florida’s 2nd Judicial Circuit or approved by the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.
It’s important to note that Florida has specific requirements for the content of the documents that are being served, as well as the method of service. Failing to comply with these requirements can result in the service being deemed invalid, which could delay the legal process.
UIDDA Florida & Serving Out-of-State Subpoenas
UIDDA Florida refers to the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act, which was adopted in its current version in Florida in 2019. This law provides a streamlined process for serving out-of-state subpoenas in Florida, making it easier for individuals and businesses to obtain evidence from witnesses who are located in other states that have also adopted some version of the UIDDA.
Under UIDDA Florida, you can use a subpoena issued in another state to compel a witness in Florida to produce evidence or testify at a deposition. This eliminates the need for multiple subpoenas to be issued and ensures that the witness is protected by Florida’s Rules of Civil Practice & Procedure.
To take advantage of UIDDA Florida, you will need to follow the procedures outlined in the law. This includes providing notice to all parties involved, following the appropriate method of service, and complying with any other requirements set forth in the law.
Need Out-of-State Process Served in Tallahassee?
Serving someone in Florida with out-of-state process can be a complicated process, but understanding Florida’s service of process rules and UIDDA Florida can make it easier. If you are facing a legal dispute that involves out-of-state process, it’s important to work with an experienced process server who can guide you through the process and ensure that your rights are protected, like Accurate Serve® of Tally. Just give us a call at 850-519-5494 or send us a work request online to get started today.
