New York City Process Server Practice Test

Personal service refers specifically to the method of delivering legal documents directly to the individual named in the documents. This means that the process server physically hands the documents to the person, ensuring that they receive them personally. This method is often regarded as the most effective way to serve documents because it provides clear proof that the individual has been adequately notified of the legal action.

Options involving certified mail, leaving documents with a family member, or posting documents on a public bulletin board do not qualify as personal service. Certified mail relies on postal delivery systems, which may not guarantee that the intended individual is aware of the documents if they are not personally received. Leaving documents with a family member also does not ensure that the intended recipient has acknowledged receipt, as the documents were not handed directly to them. Posting on a public bulletin board completely bypasses the individual, making it an inappropriate method for personal service. Therefore, personal service is distinguished by its direct hand-off to the intended recipient.