What is a process server?
A process server is a person authorized to deliver legal documents such as summons, complaints, subpoenas, and court orders to the parties involved in a legal proceeding. In Michigan, process may be served by any person who is not a party to the action and who is at least 18 years old, as specified under MCR 2.103. Michigan Process Service LLC employs trained, experienced servers who understand the Michigan Court Rules and the procedural requirements for valid service.
How is process served in Michigan?
Under Michigan Court Rule MCR 2.105(A), process may be served on an individual by personal delivery of the summons and complaint, or by sending them via registered or certified mail with return receipt requested and restricted delivery. If these methods fail after diligent attempts, the court may order alternative service under MCR 2.105(I), which may include posting, publication, or another method reasonably calculated to give the defendant actual notice of the proceeding.
How much does a process server cost in Michigan?
Michigan Process Service LLC charges $65 for standard service (first attempt within 3-5 business days, up to three attempts), $95 for rush service (first attempt within 24 hours), and $150 for same-day service (same business day when ordered by 12:00 PM ET). Skip trace add-on is $45 for database searches. Family law matters such as PPOs start at $75 for standard service. See our fees page for complete pricing.
What is a proof of service in Michigan?
A proof of service is a sworn document filed with the court confirming that legal papers were served on the named party. Under MCR 2.104, the proof of service must state the date, time, place, and manner of service, and must identify or describe the person served. Michigan Process Service LLC provides notarized proofs of service delivered electronically in PDF format within 24 hours of service or each attempt.
Can a process server leave papers with someone else?
Michigan Court Rules allow substituted service in certain circumstances. Under MCR 2.105(A)(2), if personal delivery cannot be made, service may be accomplished by leaving the papers at the individual's usual place of abode with a person of suitable age and discretion who resides there. The server must also mail a copy to the defendant's last known address. This method is sometimes called "substituted service" or "nail and mail" and is documented in our proof of service.
How many attempts will be made to serve papers?
Michigan Process Service LLC makes up to three service attempts at different times and days as part of the standard service fee. Attempts are made at varied times (morning, afternoon, evening) and on different days of the week to maximize the chance of successful service. If service is not completed after three attempts, we provide a detailed affidavit of non-service documenting all attempts, which supports a motion for alternative service under MCR 2.105(I).
What happens if a person cannot be found for service?
If the defendant cannot be located after diligent attempts, your attorney can file a motion for alternative service under MCR 2.105(I). The court may authorize service by posting at the last known address, publication in a newspaper of general circulation, or another method reasonably calculated to give the defendant notice. Michigan Process Service LLC also offers skip tracing services to locate defendants who have moved or are evading service before resorting to alternative methods.
Do you serve papers statewide in Michigan?
Yes. Michigan Process Service LLC maintains server coverage across all 83 Michigan counties, from Wayne County in metro Detroit to Keweenaw County at the tip of the Upper Peninsula. Our servers are local to their coverage areas, ensuring familiarity with county courthouses, filing procedures, and the neighborhoods where service is attempted. View our areas served page for a complete list of counties and cities.
Can you serve a personal protection order (PPO) in Michigan?
Yes. Under MCL 600.2950, a personal protection order must be personally served on the respondent to be enforceable. Michigan Process Service LLC provides emergency PPO service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with same-day dispatch available. PPO service starts at $75 for standard service and $175 for same-day emergency service.
How are eviction notices served in Michigan?
Under Michigan's Summary Proceedings Act (MCL 600.5735), the summons in a summary proceeding must be served at least 3 days before the return date by delivering a copy to the tenant personally or by leaving it at the tenant's usual place of residence with a member of the household of suitable age. Michigan Process Service LLC serves Demand for Possession notices (7-day and 30-day), Summary Proceedings summons, and Writs of Restitution for landlords and property managers throughout Michigan.
What documents can a process server deliver?
A process server can deliver virtually any legal document that requires formal service, including civil summons, complaints, subpoenas ad testificandum and duces tecum, divorce papers, custody motions, personal protection orders, eviction notices, demand for possession, writs of restitution, workers' compensation documents, and court orders. Michigan Process Service LLC handles all document types across all Michigan circuit courts, district courts, and probate courts.
Do you offer same-day process service in Michigan?
Yes. Same-day service is available when orders are received by 12:00 PM ET. Same-day service costs $150 for civil documents and $175 for family law documents, and is available 365 days per year including weekends and holidays. This service level is ideal for personal protection orders, emergency custody orders, and temporary restraining orders that require immediate service.
What is skip tracing?
Skip tracing is the process of locating a person who has moved, provided a false address, or is actively evading service. Michigan Process Service LLC uses professional databases including LexisNexis, TLO, Michigan Secretary of State vehicle registration records, property tax records, utility account traces, and social media analysis to develop a verified current address. The skip trace add-on costs $45 for database searches or $150 for comprehensive field investigation.
Can you serve papers on a business or corporation in Michigan?
Yes. Under MCR 2.105(D), service on a domestic or foreign corporation may be made by serving a summons and complaint on an officer, director, managing agent, or the resident agent designated by the corporation. Michigan Process Service LLC verifies current registered agent information through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) before each service attempt, ensuring papers are delivered to the correct agent at the correct address.
How do I hire a process server in Michigan?
Contact Michigan Process Service LLC at (313) 481-7092 or visit our office at 1001 Woodward Avenue, Suite 500, Detroit, MI 48226. Provide the documents to be served, the name and last known address of the person to be served, and your preferred service level (standard, rush, or same-day). We handle the rest and deliver a notarized proof of service upon completion.