Introduction:

When you’re involved in a legal matter—whether it’s serving divorce papers, a small claims notice, or a statement of claim—hiring a process server can be a critical step. In Alberta, where legal processes must adhere to provincial rules and timelines, ensuring your documents are served correctly is essential to keeping your case on track. But before you pick up the phone or send that email to hire a process server, there are a few key steps you should take to make the process smoother, more cost-effective, and legally sound. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Understand Your Legal Requirements

Before you hire a process server, take a moment to clarify what’s required for your specific situation. Alberta’s Rules of Court outline how legal documents must be served, depending on the type of case. For example, personal service (hand-delivering documents to the individual) is often required for initiating documents like a Statement of Claim, while other documents might allow for substituted service or service by mail. Check with your lawyer or review the court paperwork to confirm the method of service needed. Knowing this upfront helps you communicate clearly with your process server and avoids delays.

2. Gather Accurate Information About the Recipient

The success of serving legal documents hinges on having the right details about the person or entity being served. Compile as much current information as possible, including:

• Their full legal name

• Current address (home, work, or both if applicable) If you can not find the address, you will need to hire a skip tracer to help you.

• Physical description (if personal service is required and they’re hard to identify)

• Known habits or routines (e.g., “They’re usually home after 6 p.m.”)

If the recipient is dodging service—a common challenge in Alberta’s rural and urban areas alike—providing extra details like a phone number or alternate contact can make all the difference. The more info you give your process server, the higher the chance of success.

3. Prepare Your Documents

Make sure all your paperwork is in order before handing it over. This means:

• Ensuring the documents are complete and signed where necessary

• Double-checking that they’re the correct versions (e.g., stamped by the court if required)

• Making copies for your records and for the process server

In Alberta, courts can be strict about proper documentation, so a missing page or an outdated form could stall your case. Having everything ready also speeds up the process server’s work, saving you time and potentially reducing costs.

4. Set a Realistic Timeline

How quickly do you need the documents served? Some legal matters in Alberta have tight deadlines—for instance, serving a Statement of Claim within one year of filing (unless extended by the court). Others might be less urgent but still time-sensitive. Be clear about your timeline when you reach out to a process server, and ask about their availability. Keep in mind factors like weather (Alberta winters can slow things down!) or the recipient’s location (rural areas like Grande Prairie vs. urban Calgary). A good process server will give you a realistic estimate and keep you updated. At EasyProServe, we attempt service within 24 hours for all files we receive, but if the file must be served within 48 hours, we do charge a rush fee.

5. Research and Choose a Reputable Process Server

Not all process servers are created equal. In Alberta, process servers aren’t required to be licensed, but hiring someone experienced and reliable is crucial. Look for a company with:

• A strong track record in your area (e.g., familiarity with Calgary courts)

• Positive client reviews or testimonials

• Transparent pricing (ask about flat rates vs. per-attempt fees)

• Proof of service documentation (like an Affidavit of Service) that meets Alberta court standards

• EasyProServe Advantage: Get real-time updates with photographs and notes of each and every service attempt and when the file is successfully served at NO EXTRA COST! Get your free quote today

Don’t hesitate to ask questions—how do they handle hard-to-serve individuals? Do they offer rush services? A professional process server will be upfront and confident in their answers.

Why Preparation Matters

Taking these steps before hiring a process server sets you up for success. It minimizes back-and-forth, reduces the risk of errors, and ensures your case moves forward without unnecessary hiccups. At EasyProServe, we’ve seen firsthand how a little preparation can turn a tricky service into a seamless one. Whether you’re in Calgary, Red Deer, or a remote corner of Alberta, we’re here to help—just bring us the details, and we’ll take it from there.

Ready to serve your documents? Contact us today for fast, reliable process serving tailored to your needs.