Frequently asked questions
Common questions about process serving in Massachusetts.
How much does process serving cost in Massachusetts?
Standard service in the Greater Boston area starts at $75 per serve. Cape Cod, the Islands, and Western Massachusetts may have additional travel fees. Rush and same-day service is available at higher rates. We provide transparent pricing with no hidden charges.
How long does it take to serve papers in Massachusetts?
Most serves in urban areas like Boston, Cambridge, and Worcester are completed within 1-3 business days. We make up to 3 attempts at varying times. Rush and same-day service is available in Suffolk, Middlesex, Norfolk, and Essex counties.
What are the rules for process serving in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts follows Mass. R. Civ. P. Rule 4 for service of process. Papers may be served by any person authorized by law who is 18 or older and not a party to the action. Service methods include in-hand delivery, last and usual service, and service by publication when authorized by the court.
Can you serve papers anywhere in Massachusetts?
Yes, we cover all 14 Massachusetts counties from Berkshire County in the west to Barnstable County on Cape Cod, including the islands of Nantucket and Marthas Vineyard. Our network of experienced servers ensures statewide coverage with local knowledge.
What happens if the person avoids being served?
If a person actively avoids service, we document all attempts with dates, times, and descriptions. After diligent attempts, we can assist with last and usual service at the persons residence or workplace, or help petition the court for alternative service methods.
Do you provide proof of service?
Yes, we provide a detailed return of service or affidavit for every job. Our documents include date, time, location, and a description of the person served, meeting all Massachusetts court requirements for filing.
Are your process servers licensed in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts does not require a specific license for process servers. However, all our servers are vetted, insured, and trained in Massachusetts service rules and court procedures. Constables and sheriffs may also serve process in Massachusetts, and we maintain relationships with both.
Can I track the status of my service?
Yes, we provide real-time status updates through our online portal. You can see when attempts are made, view GPS-verified locations, and download proof of service documents as soon as service is completed.
What areas do you serve most frequently?
Our highest volume is in Suffolk County (Boston, Chelsea, Revere), Middlesex County (Cambridge, Lowell, Somerville), and Norfolk County (Quincy, Brookline, Braintree). However, we maintain active servers in every Massachusetts county.
Do you handle rush or same-day service?
Yes, we offer same-day and next-day rush service in the Greater Boston metro area, including Suffolk, Middlesex, Norfolk, and Essex counties. Rush service in other areas depends on server availability. Contact us for rush pricing.
What is last and usual service in Massachusetts?
Last and usual service is a method permitted under Massachusetts law where papers are left at the defendants last and usual place of abode and a copy is mailed. This method is commonly used when in-hand service is not possible after diligent attempts.
Can you serve documents at a business in Massachusetts?
Yes, we regularly serve documents at businesses throughout Massachusetts. For corporations, service can be made on an officer, director, or agent authorized to accept service. We are experienced with service at corporate offices, restaurants, construction sites, and other commercial locations.
How do I submit documents for service?
You can submit documents by email, through our online portal, by fax, or in person at our Boston office. We accept documents from attorneys, law firms, pro se litigants, landlords, and other authorized parties. We begin processing your job the same day we receive it.
Do you serve family court documents?
Yes, we serve divorce complaints, custody motions, child support modifications, contempt summons, and all other Probate and Family Court documents throughout Massachusetts. Our servers handle these sensitive matters with appropriate discretion.
What Massachusetts courts do you file documents with?
We file documents at all Massachusetts trial courts including Superior Court, District Court, Boston Municipal Court, Probate and Family Court, Housing Court, and Land Court. We handle both electronic and paper filings depending on court requirements.