Are process servers allowed to leave documents with neighbors?

Process servers are indeed allowed to leave documents with neighbors as part of substituted service. Substituted service is a legal method that permits a process server to deliver papers to someone other than the intended recipient when direct delivery is not possible. This is especially applicable in cases where the individual cannot be found despite reasonable efforts to locate them at their residence.

In New York, if a process server attempts to deliver the documents multiple times without success, they can leave the documents with a competent adult residing at the same address as the intended recipient, effectively allowing for the service to be completed. It's important for the process server to document their efforts and ensure that the person they leave the documents with is likely to relay the information to the intended recipient.

The other options do not accurately reflect the provisions for substituted service as outlined in New York law. For instance, while direct service is always preferable, there are circumstances that authorize leaving documents with a neighbor, which is what makes the correct choice appropriate in this context.