Process Service

[Hickok45]

I'd like to start my own business as a process server but there are just a few things I'm unsure of. which is holding me back from getting started.
I have three questions in particular:
1- What is required for confirmation of identity, for example if I had a picture of John Doe's ID, and I see someone who looks just like the ID photo, could I just say "hey John Doe, how's it going?" and if they reply is that good enough? or do I need them to say "Yes I'm John Doe[?]"
2- previously I thought that if personal service fails, I could just leave a copy on their front door AND(not or) send one in certified mail, however, after doing some reading, here's where my question comes in: RCW 4.28.080, subsection 1 through 16 is clear to me, but 17 is confusing. From my understanding it basically says "If you cannot do method 1 through 16, then do method 16 AND mail it." So it's like saying if you cant do 16, then do 16 as well as mail it, which renders mailing pointless since 16 alone is adequate.
Link to see that section: https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=4.28.080
3- Is there a certain number of attempts required before mailing it?
Thanks for reading

 

[adjusterjack]

Join the association (if it still exists) and you'll be able to get all your questions answered.

Washington Process Server Association - Washington State Process Server Association Washington State Process Server Association (wspsa.com)

 

[PayrollHRGuy]

I wouldn't pull out the checkbook for that membership. Their page doesn't look like it has been touched in several years and their Facebook page hasn't had a post since 2012.

You may want to check https://napps.org/ That is the National Association.

 

[quincy]

I'd like to start my own business as a process server but there are just a few things I'm unsure of. which is holding me back from getting started.
I have three questions in particular:
1- What is required for confirmation of identity, for example if I had a picture of John Doe's ID, and I see someone who looks just like the ID photo, could I just say "hey John Doe, how's it going?" and if they reply is that good enough? or do I need them to say "Yes I'm John Doe[?]"
2- previously I thought that if personal service fails, I could just leave a copy on their front door AND(not or) send one in certified mail, however, after doing some reading, here's where my question comes in: RCW 4.28.080, subsection 1 through 16 is clear to me, but 17 is confusing. From my understanding it basically says "If you cannot do method 1 through 16, then do method 16 AND mail it." So it's like saying if you cant do 16, then do 16 as well as mail it, which renders mailing pointless since 16 alone is adequate.
Link to see that section: https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=4.28.080
3- Is there a certain number of attempts required before mailing it?
Thanks for reading

You might want to sit down with a business law professional to personally discuss your business plans. It appears that you need to learn quite a bit before setting up your process serving business.

Good luck.

 

[zddoodah]

Out of curiosity, why are you looking to start a business in a field about which you aren't particularly knowledgeable.

1. The overwhelming majority of services are accomplished at a person's home or place of business, and the person being served either comes to the door or reception area or doesn't. Almost never would you have a photo.

2. Generally substituted service requires multiple attempts at personal service. I'm not going to review the Washington rules for specifics and, to the best of my knowledge, no one who posts here is a Washington attorney.

3. Probably.

In addition to the couple of good suggestions already made (here and elsewhere), I'd suggest you go to a local law library and ask the librarian to help you find a civil procedure practice guide, which should have some in-depth discussion of the rules for service of process.

 

[Just Blue]

I'd like to start my own business as a process server but there are just a few things I'm unsure of. which is holding me back from getting started.
I have three questions in particular:
1- What is required for confirmation of identity, for example if I had a picture of John Doe's ID, and I see someone who looks just like the ID photo, could I just say "hey John Doe, how's it going?" and if they reply is that good enough? or do I need them to say "Yes I'm John Doe[?]"
2- previously I thought that if personal service fails, I could just leave a copy on their front door AND(not or) send one in certified mail, however, after doing some reading, here's where my question comes in: RCW 4.28.080, subsection 1 through 16 is clear to me, but 17 is confusing. From my understanding it basically says "If you cannot do method 1 through 16, then do method 16 AND mail it." So it's like saying if you cant do 16, then do 16 as well as mail it, which renders mailing pointless since 16 alone is adequate.
Link to see that section: https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=4.28.080
3- Is there a certain number of attempts required before mailing it?
Thanks for reading

It is apparent that you need training. This is not a training site.