In Florida, there are several ways that judicial papers are allowed to be served. (Subpoenas can be served in all counties by a process server without a Motion and Order.)
1. M/O - Papers can only be served by the Sheriff unless by Motion and Order.
2. Certified - Process Servers in these counties must be certified by the court.
3. Sheriff - Process Servers in these counties must be appointed by the Sheriff.
In Florida's 67 counties, 33 have certified Process Servers, 10 are appointed by the Sheriff, 4 have both certified and Sherrif appointed and 20 are by Motion and Order.
What does this mean for you?
In almost all instances, the professional process servers in Florida give you better service than the Sheriff's department. The difference between the service levels is growing as gas prices increase and the Florida Legislature refuses to increase the fee structure Sheriff's Departments can charge for process of service.
While a Sheriff will make 3 attempts to serve your papers before returning them to you, most professional process servers will make unlimited attempts.
A Sheriff will only try a primary address. If you want a secondary address tried, you must refile for those attempts. The professional process servers on our site will perform skip trace for you and get your paper served without additional trips to the court house.
Many times, if you have a difficult service, it is worth the Motion and Order in order to have a professional process server complete your service of process.