What information is typically required to serve legal documents effectively?

The effective service of legal documents relies heavily on obtaining accurate and complete information about the recipient. The recipient's name and address are vital because they directly relate to the ability to locate and serve the individual with the documents. Without the correct name, the server cannot definitively identify the person who is meant to receive the legal notice, and without the correct address, they will be unable to deliver it in person, which is often a requirement for legal service. This makes the name and address essential components for ensuring that the service complies with legal standards and that the intended recipient is informed of the proceedings against them.

In contrast, while a professional title may provide some context, it is not a requirement for effective service. Similarly, only having the recipient's birthdate does not offer enough information for identification or delivery. The social security number, while useful for certain legal matters, is not typically necessary for serving documents and raises privacy concerns that can complicate the process. Therefore, focusing on the recipient's name and address is the most practical and necessary approach for effective service.