Why Would a Process Server Be Looking for Me? A Simple Guide
Seeing an unknown person at your door or hearing from a friend that someone is trying to find you can be unsettling. In fact, if you learn that person is a process server, your mind might jump to the worst-case scenario. It’s a moment that can cause a lot of anxiety and confusion.
As of Sunday, October 5, 2025, let’s clear the air. A process server looking for you is simply a formal notification. Therefore, this guide will explain what a process server does and the most common reasons they might be looking for you.
First, What is a Process Server? 🚶♂️📄
Before we get into the “why,” let’s cover the “what.” A process server is a neutral professional whose only job is to deliver legal documents to an individual or business.
Think of them as a certified messenger for the court system. Furthermore, it is very important to know that they are not law enforcement officers. They cannot arrest you, and their role is not to intimidate you. Instead, they are simply delivering a message to ensure that a person’s constitutional right to “due process” is upheld.
Common Reasons a Process Server is Looking for You
If a process server is trying to find you, it’s almost always for one of the following reasons.
1. You are Being Sued (You are a Defendant)
First and foremost, this is the most common reason. It means another person or a company has filed a lawsuit against you. The documents are likely a Summons and a Complaint (or “Petition” in Louisiana), which state who is suing you and why.
2. You are Needed as a Witness 🙋
Alternatively, you may be needed as a witness. This is also very common and does not mean you are in trouble. If you are being served with a Subpoena, it means you may have information that is important to someone else’s legal case.
3. You are Involved in a Family Law Case 👨👩👧
In addition, a process server may be looking for you to deliver papers related to family court matters, such as divorce, child support petitions, or custody hearings.
4. You are Part of an Eviction Proceeding 🏡
If you are a tenant, a landlord may have filed a “Rule for Possession” (an eviction lawsuit) against you. In this case, the process server’s job is to deliver the official notice of the court date.
Important: Don’t Panic and Don’t Hide 🚫
Receiving legal papers is never fun, but avoiding the process server is a losing strategy.
- To begin with, the case doesn’t go away. Ignoring the server doesn’t stop the lawsuit.
- Also, it can get more complicated. A server who can’t find you may have to try serving you at work, which can be embarrassing.
- Most importantly, you lose time. By avoiding service, you are only reducing the amount of time you have to hire an attorney and prepare a proper response.
The best and smartest thing you can do is accept the documents.
The Lafayette Process Servers LLC Professional Standard
The trained, professional process servers at Lafayette Process Servers LLC understand that receiving legal documents can be stressful. For this reason, our job is to conduct every service with discretion, respect, and professionalism. We are simply delivering a message, ensuring everyone’s legal rights are protected.
If you are an attorney or individual who needs to find someone for a legal case, trust the professionals. Contact Lafayette Process Servers LLC today.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This blog post provides general information and is not a substitute for legal advice. If you have been served with legal documents, then you should consult with a qualified attorney immediately to discuss your rights and options.
📚 Sources & Further Reading
- American Bar Association: “How Courts Work”: An overview of the civil case process, including service of process. Link to the ABA
- National Association of Professional Process Servers (NAPPS): Information on the role and ethics of professional process servers. Link to NAPPS
- Lafayette Process Servers LLC: Your expert for professional and discreet service of process in Louisiana. Link to Lafayette Process Servers LLC