Short answer: to hire a process server in Florida, get your summons issued by the clerk, gather the documents and everything you know about the person being served, and send it to a certified process server who works in that county. The server attempts service and gives you a signed return of service to file with the court.
Here is how to hire a process server in Florida, step by step.
1. Make sure your papers are ready to serve
A process server can only serve what the court has issued. Before you order service, check that you have:
- The summons issued by the clerk (signed and sealed), or the subpoena or notice you need served
- The complaint or petition and every exhibit that goes with it
- One full set for each person being served
Watch the clock. Under Florida Rule of Civil Procedure 1.070(j), the initial papers generally need to be served within 120 days of filing. Ordering service early gives you room if the first address doesn’t work out.
2. Gather what you know about the person
When you hire a process server, the more they know, the fewer wasted trips. Send whatever you have:
- Full legal name (and any nicknames or other names)
- Home address, plus a work address if you have one
- A photo or physical description
- Vehicle, if known
- Any hearing date or deadline tied to the papers
Serving a business? Include the registered agent’s name and address from Sunbiz.
3. Hire a process server who is certified
In Florida, papers can be served by the sheriff or by a private process server. Certified process servers are appointed by the chief judge of a judicial circuit and must follow Chapter 48 of the Florida Statutes. Before you hire, ask:
- Which circuit or county are you certified or appointed in?
- How is pricing set, and what does it include?
- How will I get updates on attempts?
- Will my return of service include everything Florida requires?
That last question matters. Under section 48.21, a return of service that leaves out a required detail, such as the date and time of service or the server’s identification number, is invalid. A sloppy return can cost you a hearing date.
4. Place your order
With YM Doc Services, you can order online at YMDocServices.com/Order. Upload your documents, add the details about the person being served, and pick the service level you need: standard, priority, rush, or same day. Our rates are published on our pricing page.
5. Get your return of service
When you hire a process server, the job ends with proof. Once the papers are served, you receive a signed return of service (affidavit). File it with the clerk to prove service. If the person can’t be served at the address you gave, you’ll get the attempt details so you can decide on next steps, such as a new address or skip tracing.
Frequently asked questions
Can I serve the papers myself?
Generally, no. A party to the case can’t serve their own court papers in Florida. Use the sheriff or a certified process server.
Do I need to hire a process server in the same county?
A local server knows the area, but what matters most is that the server is authorized to serve where the person is located. YM Doc Services serves Orange, Seminole, and West Volusia counties, with statewide coverage through our network.
How much does it cost to hire a process server?
It depends on the service level and the number of people served. See our guide to process server costs in Orlando or our pricing page.
Ready to hire a process server? Order at YMDocServices.com/Order or call 407-228-2656. YM Doc Services: Ninth Judicial Circuit roster · Seminole County appointed · Bilingual, English and Spanish.
We provide GPS-stamped, court-compliant service of process throughout Orange County, Seminole County, and West Volusia County. Licensed Florida process server — FAPPS Member · NAPPS Member · Florida Statutes Chapter 48 Compliant.
