A process server is a trained professional who delivers court papers and other legal documents to the person named in the paperwork according to state rules, and prepare a sworn proofs (or affidavits) of service for the court.

No, you do not need an attorney to hire a process server for you. You may work dreictly with Rook Legal to complete service professionally and in compliance with state rules.

While friends or family members can serve your documents, Rook Legal ensures every serve is fully compliant with Washington Civil Rule 4 and documented with precision. Each serve includes photo traceability—every image is uniquely coded with its original metadata for verification—and e-filing of your Proof of Service directly into your case. You’ll also receive digital copies by email, providing a secure, stress-free completion of your service.

Most serves are completed within 3–10 days, depending on the other party's availability, the service location, how quickly the documents need to be served, etc. 

After service is complete, we will provide a Proof of Service you can file with the court documenting how and when the papers were served. Depending on the type of document and case, the respondent will have a set time to file a response. If they fail to respond within that period, you may be able to request a default judgment or pursue other remedies under the court’s rules. **For advice specific to your situation, please consult the court or an attorney. **

We have several ways to receive updates on your service order. 1) You’ll receive email updates after each attempt, 2) by logging into our portal to check the status, and 3) customers can request a full progress report anytime via email, calling or texting us. 

In Washington State, a person may be served at their place of employment, and service at work is a common method. Service rules vary by state and by the type of document being served. 

Service on minors is governed by strict, state-by-state rules and can vary by document type. For example, under Washington law a child under age 14 is generally served personally and a parent, guardian, or person having care or control must also be served. Family-law matters, protection orders, guardianship petitions, and other case types may have additional or different requirements. At Rook Legal we review the originating state’s service rules before accepting or attempting any out-of-state job to help ensure proper compliance.

Read the documents immediately, note any deadlines and do not ignore them. If you have questions about the documents or the required response time, contact the court or an attorney. 

If you believe you have been improperly served, it is important to read the documents in their entirety and contact an attorney to discuss your specific situation.