What are the potential consequences of improper service?

Proper service of process is a critical component of legal proceedings, and failing to adhere to established protocols can lead to significant complications. When service is not performed correctly, it often results in delays in the legal process because the defendant or involved parties may not receive notice of the action against them. This lack of proper notification can prevent them from responding in a timely manner, consequently stalling the progress of the case.

Additionally, improper service can lead to the dismissal of cases. Courts may determine that the service of process did not fulfill the legal requirements, which can mean the action is void or invalid. This creates additional steps for the party attempting to proceed with the case, necessitating the repairing of service, which introduces further delays and complications.

Hence, the potential consequences of improper service include significant setbacks to the efficiency of legal proceedings and the risk of having a case dismissed, making it crucial for process servers to understand and execute proper service protocols.