California Private Investigator Practice Exam

When is the service considered complete in process serving?

1. When the subject acknowledges receipt

2. When the process server completes an affidavit

3. When the documents are mailed

4. At the moment of first contact

The correct answer is: When the process server completes an affidavit

Service of process is considered complete when the process server has fulfilled all legal requirements and documented that the service occurred. This completion is typically marked by the filing of an affidavit, which serves as proof that the documents were served according to the laws governing service in that jurisdiction. When the process server completes an affidavit, this document details how, when, and to whom the service was made, thus providing legal evidence that service has been properly executed. The affidavit must include specific information, such as the date, time, and manner in which service was carried out, ensuring that it can stand up to scrutiny in a court of law. While acknowledging receipt by the subject, mailing of the documents, or even first contact are important aspects of the service process, they do not, by themselves, constitute the completion of service. Acknowledgment does not guarantee compliance with legal service requirements, mailing does not confirm that the party received the document in a legally acceptable manner, and first contact is merely an initial step rather than an indication of formal service. The affidavit serves as the culmination of these actions, confirming that all necessary procedures have been followed.