Tennessee Process Server FAQ
What is service of process in Tennessee?
Service of process is the formal delivery of legal documents (summons, subpoenas, court orders) to a party in a lawsuit, giving them notice and an opportunity to respond. In Tennessee, service is governed by the Tennessee Rules of Civil Procedure, Rule 4.
Who can serve process in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, process may be served by the sheriff, a deputy, a private process server, or any disinterested adult who is not a party to the action. Unlike some states, Tennessee does not require private process servers to hold a state license.
How is a summons served in Tennessee?
A summons in Tennessee is typically served by personal delivery to the defendant. If the defendant is unavailable, substituted service may be made by leaving the documents with a co-resident of suitable age and discretion at the defendant's dwelling.
What is a subpoena?
A subpoena is a court order compelling a person to appear in court, give testimony, or produce documents. In Tennessee, subpoenas are governed by Tenn. R. Civ. P. 45. Failure to comply with a properly served subpoena can result in contempt of court.
What is skip tracing?
Skip tracing is the process of locating a person who has moved or cannot be found at their last known address. It involves searching public records, databases, property records, voter registration, and other sources to find a current address.
What happens if a defendant cannot be served?
If personal service fails after diligent effort, the attorney may petition the court for an alternate form of service, such as service by publication or posting. A Due Diligence Affidavit documenting all service attempts must be filed with the court.
What is a Due Diligence Affidavit?
A Due Diligence Affidavit (also called a Not Found Affidavit) is a sworn statement documenting all attempts made to locate and serve a defendant. Tennessee courts require this before granting alternate service such as service by publication.
How quickly can you serve documents in Tennessee?
We offer three service tiers: Routine (within 1 week), Rush (2-3 business days), and Same Day (for documents received by 12:00pm CT). Rush and Same Day service carry additional fees.
Do you serve documents in all 95 Tennessee counties?
Yes. Tennessee Process Servers, Inc. covers all 95 Tennessee counties — from Davidson and Shelby to rural Pickett and Van Buren. We also offer nationwide service through our partner network.
What is the cost of process serving in Tennessee?
Routine service starts at $85 per address per defendant. Rush service adds $65, and Same Day service adds $65. Difficult or remote areas may carry higher fees. Contact us for a specific quote.
What is an Affidavit of Service?
An Affidavit of Service (also called a Return of Service or Proof of Service) is a sworn statement by the process server documenting the date, time, location, and manner of service, and the name/description of the person served. It is filed with the court to prove proper service.
Can you serve documents to businesses in Tennessee?
Yes. We serve legal documents to corporations, LLCs, partnerships and other business entities through their registered agent, an officer, or a manager, in compliance with Tennessee Rules of Civil Procedure Rule 4.04.
What are your hours of operation?
Tennessee Process Servers, Inc. operates Monday through Saturday, 8:00am to 8:00pm Central Time. We are closed Sundays. For urgent matters, call (615) 776-7378.
Is my information kept confidential?
Yes. All client information, case details and communications are strictly confidential. We do not share or sell any client data. All records are handled with professional discretion.