What is an 'affidavit of service'?

An 'affidavit of service' is a sworn statement detailing how and when the documents were served. This legal document is crucial in the context of process serving because it provides proof that the legal documents have been delivered to the relevant parties in accordance with the law. The affidavit typically includes information such as the date and time of service, the manner in which the documents were served (e.g., personally, by mail), and the identities of the individuals involved in the process.

This documentation is vital for the court to verify that all parties have been properly notified of the legal proceedings, which upholds the principles of due process. Without a valid affidavit of service, a party may challenge the validity of the service, which could delay or jeopardize the outcome of the case. Thus, the accuracy and integrity of the affidavit directly impact the legal proceedings, making it an essential component of the process serving framework.