Serving a lawsuit is a crucial step in the legal process, as it ensures that all parties involved are informed of the legal action against them. In Wisconsin, like in many other states, serving a lawsuit must adhere to specific rules and procedures to be considered valid. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to serve a lawsuit in Wisconsin, outlining the essential steps and considerations to ensure a smooth and legally compliant process.
- Know the Requirements:
Before initiating the process of serving a lawsuit in Wisconsin, it is essential to understand the specific requirements set by the state's laws. In Wisconsin, lawsuits are typically served following Wisconsin Statutes Section 801.11. Ensure that you are familiar with these regulations or consult an experienced attorney to guide you through the process.
- Select a Qualified Server:
In Wisconsin, any individual who is at least 18 years old and not a party to the lawsuit can serve the legal documents. This person is commonly referred to as the "process server." It is vital to select a responsible and reliable individual for this task, as proper service is critical to the validity of the lawsuit.
- Choose the Appropriate Method of Service:
Wisconsin allows several methods for serving a lawsuit, depending on the type of case and the parties involved. The most common methods include:
a. Personal Service: This involves physically handing the lawsuit documents to the defendant. Personal service is often the most effective method, as it ensures the defendant receives the papers directly.
b. Certified Mail: If the defendant cannot be located or is avoiding service, the court may (in some cases) allow service via certified mail with return receipt requested. The defendant must personally sign for the documents upon delivery.
c. Substituted Service: If the defendant is unavailable for personal service, the court may (in some cases) permit substituted service. This involves leaving the documents with a responsible adult at the defendant's residence or place of business.
d. Publication: In exceptional cases where all other methods fail, the court may authorize service through publication in a newspaper within the area where the defendant is believed to be located.
- File an Affidavit of Service:
Once the lawsuit has been properly served, the process server must complete an Affidavit of Service (also known as Proof of Service) to document the details of the service. This affidavit is a sworn statement confirming that the defendant was served according to the applicable rules and regulations. This affidavit of service must be filed with the Court.
- Time Limit for Service:
In Wisconsin, there is a time limit for serving a lawsuit after it has been filed with the court. Typically, the service should be completed within 90 days from the date the lawsuit was filed. Failing to serve the documents within this time frame may lead to case dismissal.
- Retain Copies for Your Records:
Make sure to keep copies of all documents served, including the complaint, summons, and Affidavit of Service, for your records. These will be essential if any disputes or challenges arise later in the legal process.
Conclusion:
Serving a lawsuit in Wisconsin requires careful adherence to the state's laws and regulations. It is essential to know the appropriate methods of service and the time limits involved to ensure the process is legally valid. If you are unsure about the proper steps to take or encounter difficulties in serving the lawsuit, seeking guidance from an experienced attorney can be immensely beneficial. Properly serving the lawsuit sets the foundation for a fair and just legal process, allowing all parties involved to understand the claims and prepare their responses accordingly.
Attorney Nathan DeLadurantey offers free consultations to explain your legal rights in Wisconsin. Free consultations can be scheduled online.
