2015 was a year to remember, especially in the world of process serving. While movie stars, political friction, and international crises dominated headlines, process service programs experienced their own battles and challenges.
Orange County Nearly Cut Private Program
In a move that shocked many, the Sheriff’s Department of Orange County announced their plan to phase out the private process server program. Orange County is one of the largest in Florida, so maintaining timely service of process with no private servers sounded unrealistic. Chief Judge Lauten acknowledged this by signing an administrative order which created a certified private process server program in Orange County. Though private servers will now be required to pay a fee, take an examination, and maintain certification, private service can continue to thrive in the area!
Victory in the Workplace
On a better note, a Florida statute amendment passed in 2015 makes it easier for process servers to serve at the recipient’s place of work. If employers don’t allow the service of process to occur, they will now face a fine.
New York Battles the Department of Consumer Affairs
A lawsuit has been brewing between New York City process servers and the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA), with the former accusing the latter of issuing subpoenas with express directives that prevent the recipient from notifying anyone. According to the NYC process servers, this violates right to counsel.
Extra Protection in New York
A lot is happening in New York! The Senate finally passed a bill that makes assault on a process server a felony charge. Though the Assembly’s vote will occur in early 2016, the Senate’s ruling provides a boost for servers who have fallen into harm’s way while working.
One thing is for sure: Process serving is rarely a dull job. What will 2016 bring?
