A key distinction between a private process server and a sheriff’s office is the speed of service and the priority given to process serving. For sheriffs, process service is but one duty among many high-level responsibilities. Their duties include general law enforcement, maintaining public order, making arrests, ensuring courthouse security, managing correctional facilities, conducting investigations, issuing citations, and responding to emergencies. Due to these numerous and demanding obligations, service through the sheriff’s department may sometimes receive lower priority, potentially prolonging completion times to weeks or even months.

Conversely, service of process is the core function and primary focus for private process servers. Their professional efforts are solely dedicated to the prompt and effective delivery of legal documents. This singular focus allows private process servers to work with greater urgency and efficiency. They can undertake multiple attempts within a shorter timeframe, often leading to service completion significantly faster than through a sheriff’s office.

Moreover, sheriffs typically conduct service attempts only during standard business hours, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. This schedule frequently aligns with the working hours of many individuals, making successful service more difficult. Private process servers, however, provide considerably greater flexibility and availability. They can conduct attempts outside conventional business hours, including early mornings or evenings, and may be available on weekends or even 24/7, depending on local legal provisions. Their willingness to adapt to the recipient’s schedule significantly raises the likelihood of prompt service.