New Oklahoma Process Server Licensing Laws Take Effect

New Oklahoma Process Server Licensing Laws Take Effect

            New Oklahoma process server laws took effect earlier this year.  They affect the waiting period during which a process server license is approved.  Process servers in Oklahoma need to become familiar with this, as the new law has received little, if any, publicity.  In essence, Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com reports that process servers’ licenses in the state of Oklahoma now take thirty days to process.  It is especially important to analyse the ways in which this could affect process servers. 

For new process servers, this means that they have to wait longer before they can serve their first set of papers.  For Oklahoma process servers who already have their licenses, this means that they need to be especially careful.  If they do not prepare to renew their process server licenses at least thirty days before their current licenses expire, they will find themselves stuck in a time gap.  During the time period where their current license has expired and the waiting period for their new one has not yet finished, they will not be able to serve any papers.  Needless to say, this can have a very negative impact on their ability to serve papers and can adversely affect their livelihood!

While these matters certainly seem relatively minor in a field that is only moderately regulated in Oklahoma, they may point toward the possibly continuation of future changes to process serving laws throughout the state.  This could be the beginning of increased regulation of process servers throughout the entire state of Oklahoma.  This could include, but is not limited to, any of the following:

ü  Shorter terms for which process servers’ licenses are valid

ü  Increased fees for process server licenses

ü  Required training classes for process servers

ü  Elimination of process servers as officers of the court

ü  Digitalisation of process server jobs

Right now, the aforementioned items are just possibilities as to what could happen in the future.  However, all process servers throughout the state of Oklahoma should take great care to make themselves well aware of the possibilities and what might come in the future.  Otherwise, an Oklahoma process server could find himself or herself without a job and without ever developing an awareness of the importance of keeping most of the laws the way they currently are.

Why Oklahoma Process Servers are Paid Well Below the Regional Average

Why Oklahoma Process Servers are Paid Well Below the Regional Average

            Compared to process servers in other states, Oklahoma process servers earn far below the regional average.  This does not just apply to process servers, but also to teachers and other professionals.  What often happens is that the best teachers and process servers in other states travel elsewhere (i.e., Texas) to make a reasonable living.  This is unfortunate, as it causes a “brain drain” per se of some of Oklahoma’s most talented individuals.  Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com examines the complexities behind this phenomenon.      

A process server performing a standard serve in Oklahoma often earns around fifty dollars, which is what a sheriff’s deputy makes.  On the contrary, a process server in Dallas, Texas, which is only about three hours away from Oklahoma City, can easily receive eighty-five or ninety-five dollars per local service of process.  Likewise, process servers in Arkansas, Kansas, and other states also generally receive more money than an Oklahoma process server does.  This can become quite problematic for those wishing to serve process throughout the State of Oklahoma.

Perhaps part of the reason Oklahoma process servers make relatively small amounts has to do with the fact that obtaining a process server license is far too easy.  In order to become a process server in Oklahoma, all one has to do is to is to get some passport photos made, pay the fee, and receive the license.  Unfortunately, no education, training, or other experience is required. 

State law does not require process servers to know the process serving laws or perform any type of internship.  While the individual must be at least eighteen years of age and of “good moral character” that is also absent any felonies, that is about it.  Perhaps this is yet another reason why process servers in Oklahoma not only make a relatively little amount of money, but is also a contributing factor as to why the general  public often holds Oklahoma process servers in relatively low regard.  Of course, as noted earlier, process servers are not the only one to experience this salary discrepancy.

A teacher in Oklahoma with a doctoral degree and ten years of teaching experience can actually make substantially less than a teacher in Texas with a master’s degree and fewer years of experience.  While some might contend that the cost of living is higher in Texas, this is usually not the case.  Likewise, teachers in both states have to undergo similar training requirements.  Thus, if the amount and type of training is not the issue, then what is?

Many have long contended that the economy in Texas and other states is higher than Oklahoma’s.  While this might prove true to some degree for some areas in Texas, the same cannot be said for those in Kansas or Arkansas, where the economic differences between there and Oklahoma are really quite minimal.  What, then, could the other factors be that make the fields of teaching, process serving, etc., pay so much less in Oklahoma than in other states?

Oklahoma has not been known in the international or even regional arenas to place a high value on education.  Given that Oklahoma’s economy has long been agriculture-based where formal education was unnecessary, the importance that many residents have traditionally placed on schooling has not kept up with those in certain other states.  Likewise, a strong correlation between the value placed upon education and teachers’ salaries exists.  Needless to say, the same holds true for process servers.  

With the exception of attorneys and those who need to have papers served in an efficient manner, many people in Oklahoma simply do not value process servers.  When one takes the complete lack of educational requirements and experience required for a process server license into account, this just lowers the standards of the profession and thus the pay.  In order for process servers to receive higher pay, three things will need to happen, which are as follow:

ü  Oklahoma will need to value its Oklahoma City process servers more.

ü  Oklahoma needs to establish more advanced training and educational requirements for process server licensing.

ü  Oklahoma’s process servers need to unionize for better wages, and they need lobbyists at the state capitol.

ü  The “economic recovery” really needs to continue to materialize, thereby reducing the number of people who apply to become process servers. 

ü  Oklahoma’s population as a whole needs to value its process servers more, which is a difficult task given that they often bring unwelcomed news.

            Unless and until the aforementioned things take place, a process server in Oklahoma is likely going to continue to make less money than their colleagues who live and work in other nearby states.  Unless Oklahoma process servers, teachers and other professionals take a strong stand and work to help make their profession one that is more organized, trained, and valued by society, then they, like teachers, will likely continue to make a very minimal amount of money.

Oklahoma City Process Servers Deserve Respect and Dignity

Oklahoma City Process Servers Deserve Respect and Dignity

For far too long, process servers have not received the respect and dignity they deserve.  Too many people try to harm, harass, and sometimes kill them.  Oklahoma process servers place their lives in grave danger each time they go out into the field to try to serve an individual, as some people react in very uncivil and violent ways.  For those in Oklahoma that wish to intimidate, maim, and kill process servers, Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com hopes that they remember a few things about the people working in this field.

These Oklahoma residents, who are officers of the court, work very hard to support both themselves and their families.  They are just trying to earn an honest living.  An Oklahoma process server does not want to hurt anyone or cause harm.  Instead, a process server merely wants to accomplish the job and go home.  How does it make sense to yell at them and/or try to shoot them?  Is that not illegal and immoral?    

Licensed by the courts, Oklahoma process servers are messengers of the court.  They are not the ones who filed the lawsuit or other court papers against anyone.  Instead, they are obligated to act as a disinterested party.  A process server does not care who prevails in the court hearing; rather, he or she just wants to deliver the papers.  People do not get angry with the mailman for delivering bills or other news, right?  Well, then why would someone hurt someone who is merely bringing the message?  Unscrupulous people need to remember not to kill the messenger!

Lastly, please remember that process servers are also fellow human beings.  Yes, that is right: they have thoughts, feelings, and dreams, too.  Like any other human being, they deserve the very same respect, dignity and kindness that everyone else does.  It would be wrong to hit one’s mum, dad, teacher, religious leader, etc.  Why, then, is it okay to insult and attack an Oklahoma process server?  While process servers may bring news that is often undesirable, he or she did not write what is on the papers.  Oklahoma process servers are not bad people and do not deserve unwarranted, unnecessarily, and sometimes deadly wrath of angry, mean, hateful recipients.

Why Oklahoma City Process Servers Need to Dress for the Occasion

Why Oklahoma City Process Servers Need to Dress for the Occasion 

            Sometimes we at Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com hear about how process servers who work with other companies or individually do not dress professionally.  While we obviously have absolutely no control over what those who work for other companies do or do not do, the field of process serving in Oklahoma is certainly a professional field.  However, what is “professional” in one situation may not be appropriate for another.  This is why it is more important for process servers in Oklahoma City, Edmond, Norman, or elsewhere to dress according to each situation.

            If an Oklahoma process server is going to serve someone in an elite suburban community or at an upscale business office, then how should he or she dress?  Well, obviously in this situation, process servers can usually expect a less favorable reaction for his or her comeliness if dressed in sagging jeans, a baseball cap that is turned backwards, and a shirttail that is hanging out.  In this instance, Oklahoma process servers should usually wear a nice dress shirt, pressed slacks, polished shoes, and have their hair washed and neatly combed.  The same rule applies in other locations, just with different clothing styles.

            This time let us assume a process server has entered a very low socioeconomic income area.  Gangs might abound, and people around the neighbourhood might not necessarily be dressed up in suits and nice slacks.  Instead, perhaps they are wearing tennis shoes, jeans, and T-shirts.  Why should they not?  With few exceptions, there is certainly no law stating what people can and cannot wear.  However, process servers who fail to match this same type of clothing attire will likely yield less than favourable results.

Oklahoma process server who goes to such places wearing a nice shirt, tie, dress pants, and polished shoes might be viewed by others there as “suspicious” and out of place.  Who are they and what do they want?  Surely they cannot be from around the neighbourhood, right?  Are they cops?  Are they selling something?  This could indeed present a problem.

Likewise, as noted earlier, process servers who go to upscale areas will often find themselves in the same position if they do not dress in nice shirts, dress slacks, etc.  People in those Oklahoma communities will likely see this person as a trespasser, someone looking to use the bathroom, an individual who is homeless, a potential thug, etc.  While this may be quite far from the truth, this, too, could present problems for Oklahoma City process servers. 

Both scenarios essentially rely upon the same logic: the need for process servers to make meaningful connections with the people around them.  Those that Oklahoma process servers go around need to be able to effectively identify with them as being “one of us”.  If they do not, then getting questions answered, finding the right person, and not getting treated as nicely can potentially become major issues.  Of course, this does not just extend to a process server’s manner of dress; it entails other factors as well.

Excellent process serving companies also realise the need to hire a diverse workforce.  Having process servers of different ages, races, nationalities, those who can speak more than one language, etc., will sometimes enhance their ability to better connect with other people around them – if they have similar attributes.  The old adages “like attracts like” and “birds of a feather flock together” are quite true indeed!

It is important to note that there are no guarantees that dressing in a certain way or having a process server who is of a particular race, age, etc., will be able to have any enhanced success over those who fail to employ these techniques.  Likewise, it is equally important not to make overgeneralisations about those those who live in upper class neighbourhoods and business districts or in lower socioeconomic areas.  People can act in all different ways, and outstanding, professional process servers should always stand ready to ensure that they act accordingly and remain ready to adapt.  However, as a general rule of thumb, the more professional Oklahoma process servers fit in to their surroundings and those within them, the more likely they chance they will have increased success when serving court papers.

The Pitfalls of Process Server Companies That Hire Independent Contractors in Different States

The Pitfalls of Oklahoma Process Server Companies That Hire Independent Contractors in Different States

           

In today’s society, it seems as though outsourcing is everywhere.  From credit card companies that send customer service jobs overseas to firms like Nike and Apple that exploit laborers in factories overseas, independent contractors and outsourcing are everywhere.  Not only do the companies that overseas labor “enjoy” increased tax breaks, but they also limit their legal liability if something goes wrong (i.e., if a poor child gets his or her hand cut off while working).  In addition, these companies can often pay these individuals less, too, which is a definite added “bonus” for chief executive officers seeking to maximize their company’s profit margin.  While all of these benefits are aimed at helping the wealthy, they also have their downsides for both clients and the workers, and the same holds true for process serving companies.  The experts at Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com would like to elucidate . . .

Process servers who outsource their work to others in different states throughout the United States of America can potentially experience a multitude of headaches.  Professional process servers need to thoroughly investigate the individuals they hire.  How reliable are the Texas process servers?  Will a process server that gets hired to do a job in Florida, California, New Mexico, Kansas, or elsewhere perform the job effectively?  What are the customary fees associated with those areas, and which laws apply?  Will someone hired as an independent contractor know what is fair and reasonable and how to follow the laws?  These are just a few of many reasonable questions that Oklahoma process servers seeking to outsource their out-of-state work might experience.

It is true that an Oklahoma process server who owns and effectively runs a company can take care to avoid many pitfalls.  The process server can perform background checks, requesting references, etc.  In addition, performing a quick Google search can often help determine whether or not a particular process serving company has found itself plagued with a multitude of complaints.  The Better Business Bureau www.bbb.org is yet another resource to use when hiring, though most process serving companies do not list themselves with it.

Relative to finding out what fees are usual and customary for process servers in different states, sometimes making phone calls around to a large number of process servers can provide some meaningful insights.  Many process servers charge about what a sheriff’s deputy would otherwise get, while other Kansas process servers may charge more or less.  Indeed, those who do not own companies at all and just do process serving on a part time basis might require the least amount of money.  Oklahoma City process servers who conduct a thorough check, if time permits, of reasonable rates throughout the area are likely to find those who will do the job for the least amount of money.

One of the biggest headaches of hiring process servers who reside in other states is that an Edmond, Oklahoma process server cannot really control the quality of work.  If a process server in Moore, Oklahoma suddenly drops the ball and disappears from a job, then it is usually not too difficult for the Oklahoma process server who hired him or her to just go and do the job himself or herself.  However, if that process server lives in another state and the process serving company that hired the process server has no corporate address there, then fixing a problem (i.e., failure to do the job) can and usually will become much more difficult.

Another bad aspect of hiring other process servers in different states is having to deal with a plethora of egos, outrageous fees, etc.  Some process servers will even try to steal clients, and professional process servers will usually not consent to signing contracts which prohibit client stealing.  Even if they do, it is not always so easy to track whether the process servers in other states are stealing your clients.  That being said, those that do get caught often do not have any assets to sue for anyway. 

Sometimes hiring process servers who know their states’ local laws, are reliable, professional, affordable, etc., is just too difficult a task.  Indeed, hiring bad process servers in other states can actually end up costing otherwise reputable companies a great deal of business from attorneys and others who also use that same process serving company for work in their local area.  Each Oklahoma process server should carefully weigh whether or not the cost-benefit analysis  of hiring contract labor elsewhere is really worth it.  Of course, professional process serving companies are not the only ones who stand to win – or lose – with outsourcing.

Though it can take time, performing background checks, taking time to call references, and only working with process servers in Oklahoma who will sign a legal contract can help pay off in the long run.  Any process server in Oklahoma or elsewhere who refuses to do so is not someone that a firm should hire anyway.  Those who are dedicated and who have nothing to hide will not have any reason to worry.

Sometimes attorneys and others will claim that finding and keeping a very trustworthy, reliable, affordable, personable process server is an extremely difficult task.  Whether in Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Kansas, Florida, or elsewhere, this is often true.  This is why those that attorneys and process servers seeking to contract out the work to others tend to prefer to hire the same process servers that do excellent work over seeking a new one for each job.

On the other side of the coin, numerous process servers can explain in detail how various professional process serving companies have cheated them out of money, have been very slow to pay, etc.  Indeed, in an effort to maximize profits, many professional Oklahoma process servers seek to pay others they hire only a mere fraction of what the client is actually paying.  The good and the bad can flow both ways, so it is important to ensure that all process servers also thoroughly investigate the companies that hire them beforehand, too!    

An Oklahoma process server who is trying to run an outstanding business should take special care to carefully weigh all of the pros and cons of hiring contract labor.  Process servers looking for work from large companies should do the same.  Some process servers run companies that help their customers throughout the entire nation, and they can indeed enjoy a great deal of success – if they take the needed precautions beforehand.  Others process servers in Oklahoma find that it is just not worth their time or effort, and therefore they do not even bother with hiring independent contractors.  Ultimately, each Oklahoma City process server company and the process servers who consider working for them must carefully determine the best course of action for his or her own professional company and those they work with.

   

Oklahoma County Sheriffs’ Deputies Versus Private Process Servers: Which Group Serves Legal Papers Better?

Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Deputies Versus Private Process Servers: Which Group Serves Legal Papers Better?

            When it comes to serving legal papers in Oklahoma, many people ask whether it is better to use the sheriff’s deputies or private process servers, such as the experts at Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com.  Both groups have their pros and cons, and they can each do a meritorious job.  However, an excellent Oklahoma process server tends to have certain capabilities that an Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Deputy simply does not – at least in most cases.  Please allow us to elucidate . . .

            Oklahoma sheriff’s deputies are paid about fifty dollars to serve process on individuals, businesses and governmental agencies.  Once hired, they usually get around to serving the papers between seven to ten days later.  They also work between the hours of eight to five o’clock.  If they have to serve try more than one address, they usually charge a brand new fee for service.  Unfortunately, these are not the only factors that limit their effectiveness 

An Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Deputy will only put forth some of the most basic effort.  Ergo, if a person answers the door and says that _______ [insert name here] is not at home, then a sheriff’s deputy often has to just take that person at his or her word.  They simply do not have the time or the human resources to extensively investigate the matter.   This places yet another severe limitation on what they can do, and this is yet another reason why choosing an Edmond, Oklahoma process server over an Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Deputy is the right choice.

Oklahoma City process servers, on the other hand, have numerous advantages for many of the same reasons that are disadvantages for a sheriff’s deputy.  An outstanding Norman, Oklahoma process server can serve papers early in the morning or, in some cases, in the middle of the night.  Process servers in Yukon, Oklahoma can wait there all day and night, if paid, in an effort to find and serve the individual.  They can check as many addresses as needed, and they can often perform skip tracing to find elusive individuals.  For these reasons, a wonderful private process server is usually the best choice.  However, one exception does exist.

Under the law, federal agencies (i.e., federal prisons) are supposed to allow process servers in Oklahoma onto their property to serve federal inmates.  However, the federal government and those that work within the walls of the prisons could care less.  After all, they are the “feds”, so why should they care what “non-feds” think?  So, in this circumstance having a sheriff’s deputy serve the papers is always the best choice – and even they sometimes have problems getting onto the property!

It is always vital to thoroughly check the references and performance records of all Oklahoma private process servers.  The quality of each Moore, Oklahoma process server and the company they own or work for can vary widely, as can the service that sheriff’s deputies provide.  Indeed, an Oklahoma sheriff’s deputy might do a praiseworthy job, depending upon the type of service required and the deputy that serves the papers.  Just to make sure to consider all factors before you hire anyone.

How Oklahoma Process Servers Can Successfully Handle Misguided Blame From Attorneys and Other Clients

How Oklahoma Process Servers Can Successfully Handle Misguided Blame From Attorneys and Other Clients

            It goes without saying that everyone makes mistakes.  This applies no matter whether someone is a doctor, lawyer, process server, teacher, or even the president of a country.  Mistakes are an inherent part of our human nature.  While it is true that Oklahoma process servers can certainly make their fair share of mistakes, sometimes it is the clients (i.e., attorneys, businesses, private individuals, etc.) who place misguided blame onto hardworking process servers.  There are many ways in which a process server can handle the situation, and how an Oklahoma process server does so can make a huge difference for everyone involved.

            Let us assume that a process server has received a set of papers to serve on an individual.  After taking all of the necessary steps, he or she serves the papers on the person.  After filing out the return of service and sending it back to the client with a copy of the papers served, the Oklahoma City process server gets a phone call.  The attorney on the other end asks, “Why did you deliver those documents to the individual?  I never gave you those documents.  Why didn’t you serve the documents I gave you?”  Of course, the attorney says this despite the fact that the papers the process server delivered were the exact same ones he or she received from the law firm, and they even had the person’s name on them. 

How else could the process server have acquired those documents?  Which process server goes around searching out other documents in a case to serve on a defendant/respondent that the process server does not need to serve?  Obviously, an Oklahoma process server would have no need to serve unnecessary documents.

What has most likely happened in this situation is quite obvious: the lawyer did not give the process server the right papers and/or changed her mind about having the services performed.  Then the attorney wanted to unnecessarily project the blame onto the process server and thus deflect it from herself.  Perhaps the attorney works for a large firm and is afraid of getting into trouble for her mistake.  Thus, by saying the process server was at fault, she can try to circumvent the blame and minimize the damage done to her career.

There are many ways to successfully and diplomatically handle this matter.   One of them involves having the process server calmly explain to the client that he or she had no access to any other papers, and only served what the attorney provided.  Besides, why would Oklahoma process servers want to serve unnecessary papers?  However, if the attorney is determined to deflect the blame from herself, this is unlikely to yield satisfactory long term results.

Another approach the Oklahoma process server can try involves offering to redo the serve.  This, while it requires extra work on the part of the process server, may help the client save face and thus use the same process server’s services again.  This approach also eliminates any arguments.  Of course, this method also comes with numerous drawbacks.

Doing the serve again for free might also affirm in the client’s mind that she was right to initially make such an assertion.  In addition, it will cost the Oklahoma process server more time and effort.  This time and effort could prove to be especially taxing if the serve took a long time to complete, and the process server may resent having to redo it for free.  Indeed, no process server wants to have to continually redo serves he or she already successfully completed over and over again for the same client.  Depending upon the client, perhaps another approach might prove to be more suitable.

A combination of these two approaches can also prove to be effective.  The process server in Edmond, Oklahoma can diplomatically explain that he or she served the correct papers in a timely fashion.  Then, without allowing the situation to turn into an argument, he or she could simply offer to serve the papers the attorney or other client wants one more time.  Provided the case did not take an exceptionally long time to serve, this allows the attorney to save face, eliminates harmful debates and arguments, and might help the process server keep the client for future business.  However, some process servers will undoubtedly strongly disagree with this approach.

A process server could easily contend that he or she is a licensed professional who deserves to receive pay for the work he or she did.  After all, the attorney made the mistake, so why should the Oklahoma process server have to pay for it by doing extra work for free?  Does the attorney perform services for free?  Additionally, who is to say that the client will even use the same process server again?  These are all excellent contentions, and they deserve serious consideration.

Oklahoma process servers who find themselves in this situation should consider several things, which are noted as follow:

Ø  How much other work does this client give the process server?

Ø  Is this client a referral from another big client?

Ø  Is this lawyer likely to go and tell many others about the “poor service” he or she received?

Ø  Is it better to receive the pay in the short run and possibly risk isolating the client in the long run?

Obviously, process servers have to consider many different things when deciding which approach to take.  Either way, the process server should, at the very least, receive pay for the successful serve he or she already did.  That should be non-negotiable, unless those serving as Oklahoma process servers believe it is better to simply forego the money altogether. 

Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com takes great pride in helping clients from around the world.  Our staff has, on very rare occasions, faced situations similar to this one, and the client is not always right.  However, if a process server want to find success in the long term, taking a polite, diplomatic approach is always best.  After all, clients are only humans, and they, too, are just as vulnerable to making mistakes as other human beings who serve as process servers.

 

Oklahoma Process Servers Should Not Expect Much Help from the Police

Oklahoma Process Servers Should Not Expect Much Help from the Police

            Oklahoma process servers would be well advised to know in advance that they should not expect the police to assist them with most aspects of their official duties.  Part of this can be understandable, as the police are limited both in their available resources and manpower.  Likewise, the county sheriff’s department will, for a fee, also serve papers as well.  However, there are other aspects of process serving in which one would think the police should provide assistance for process servers in Oklahoma.

            One very import aspect in a process server’s work in being able to get the papers served in a timely manner.  Sometimes businesses such as Dell Computers or QuadGraphics will intentionally lie and claim a person is not there and/or will even help an employee try to evade service.  This is not only illegal, but it is highly unethical.  However, since the companies and the people that work for them are violating civil laws instead of criminal ones, they will refuse to help.  Indeed, perhaps they have a point in not getting involved in civil laws, but the police can still have their uses and be helpful to Oklahoma process servers who are in need of assistance.

            If a process server is ever threatened with physical harm or if people – certain employees of companies such as Dell and QuadGraphics or the people inside who are being served – try to hurt a process server while he or she is performing his or her duties, then the matter turns from a civil case to a criminal one.  In this case the police can and often will come out to assist a process server who has been harmed or has been threatened with bodily injury, etc.  Their duty, after all, is to protect and to serve, and they are obligated to do so.

            Sometimes private individuals, heavy-handed security guards, and others will attack or try to otherwise inflict harm upon process servers, and the police can intervene and make arrests as necessary.  Process servers should always take great care to carry their licenses at all times and follow the laws, so that they do not find themselves in trouble instead.

            Process servers in Oklahoma should also carry copies of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and the Oklahoma Rules of Civil Procedure on them at all times.  Sometimes the local police have no clue about the laws pertaining to process servers and what they can and cannot do.  Process servers often have to diplomatically educate them on-site, but even then the police do not always care.  After all, they are the “police” and who is a “process server” to tell them about the laws!?  Some of the outstanding process servers at www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com have sometimes experienced this from the Edmond Police Department and others.

            As a general rule of thumb, Oklahoma process servers should still try to maintain excellent relations with the police and the departments from which they come.  While they are often less than helpful, they still have their uses, on occasion, when some people get violent.  An Oklahoma process server who knows in advance the extent to which the police will and will not help them will find that they have a much easier time not expecting too much assistance when they need it most.

The Importance of Video Cameras for Oklahoma Process Servers

The Importance of Video Cameras for Oklahoma Process Servers

            Traditionally many people think of video cameras as something that, say, a licensed private investigator might have use for.  A professional Oklahoma process server would never have use for video cameras now, would they?  Well, while it is indeed true that private investigators in Oklahoma like those at Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com often have more of a need for them than their process serving counterparts, this does not mean that the latter does not need them at all.  Indeed, video cameras can prove to be valuable for members of both professions.

            A lot of things can potentially happen to Oklahoma process servers when they go up to serve someone papers.  The person they are serving might be very nice and could just accept the papers.  This can make for a smooth, easy serve, but unfortunately this is not always the case. 

Some people grow angry and blame the Oklahoma process severs for serving them the papers.  Despite the fact that process servers are an impartial party to the entire process, this does not always seem to matter.  The person who just got served might try to attack the professional process server and might also curse and swear at him or her. 

Threats of violence can also take place, and a carefully mounted video camera located on a car or a tiny video camera placed on the process server’s shirt can provide invaluable evidence.  Everything needs to be documented to show the police or even a judge or jury how what happened and can exonerate the process server while showing where the real blame lies.  However, other circumstances also arise when process servers in Oklahoma can find great use for a video camera.

Sometimes people who are served will lie and will claim that they never received the papers at all.  While the courts will often believe an officer of the court over other ordinary individuals, having video evidence can help ensure that anyone claiming that he or she was not served has just perjured himself or herself in court.  This also protects Oklahoma process servers from legal liability, as it is a felony in Oklahoma for a process server to have properly claimed to have served someone papers when he or she really did no such thing.

Video cameras definitely have their place within the professional process serving profession.  When used correctly, they can record helpful evidence that can protect process servers.  This type of equipment adds an extra layer of invisible armor that serves as a shield of sorts.  Indeed, video cameras can protect private investigators and process servers both!

Oklahoma Process Servers Should Have Formal Training Courses to Help Them Succeed

Oklahoma Process Servers Should Have Formal Training Courses to Help Them Succeed

            For the sake of professionalism and the quality of work, Oklahoma process servers should have to take some kind of training class.  Right now all a process server in Oklahoma has to do is to go down to the courthouse with two passport photos, get a small process server bond, swear he or she is of sound moral character, be at least eighteen years of age, and make sure there are no felonies on his or her record.  Quite frankly, that is far too easy, and it entices many people into the profession who have no clue about what it means to be a process server.

            There are so many rules under both the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and the Oklahoma Rules of Civil Procedure that process servers have to follow.  These laws not only benefit them, but they also help the clients they work for.  For example, a well-trained process server should know how many attempts on service he or she should make, as well as the different types of allowable service (i.e., personal, substitute, posting, etc.).  Knowing the laws, which the process servers at Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com are well versed in, can also help process servers in other ways, too.

If process servers do not know what their rights are and what they can do, businesses, individuals, and the federal government might try to exploit a process server’s lack of knowledge.  For example, some federal penitentiaries like the one in El Reno, Oklahoma refuse to allow process servers to serve process on inmates.  They will only let a sheriff’s deputies provide the service, and they claim to allow it by mail.  However, an Oklahoma process server has the same right as a sheriff’s deputies to serve process.  If a process server in Oklahoma does not know that the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure specifically allow them make this type of serve, then they may think they cannot do it when they really can.  This is just one of many examples where the laws can aid in the service of process.  Of course, laws are not the only things process servers need to know.

An excellent process server will also provide creative methods of service and will know how to find and seek out someone who is hiding.  How does someone serve an individual who is in hiding and does not wish to be found?  These are areas in which process servers should receive continual training, and yet where is the school or training to learn this?  It is true that some who enter the field of process serving may have a military and/or law enforcement background, and others will have a very natural creative ability.  However, how many humans enter the field of process serving without any such experience or knowledge of creative methods?  The number is probably higher than most people think.

Many process servers pay a large sum for their license and get their bond thinking that people will just automatically contact them.  However, professional process servers who have served in the field for any given period of time know otherwise.  To stay in the field, one must know how to form, market, and run a business and seek out and keep clients.  Unfortunately, most new process servers find themselves lacking this vital knowledge, and thus their licenses often sit there largely unused. 

These are some of the numerous reasons why process servers in Oklahoma should have to have some type of course or training like they do in Texas and in various other states.  This type of training will not only help process servers become more effective as professionals, but it might also help raise the amount of money they can charge for their services.  Until then, the field of process servers will remain saturated with an endless supply of individuals who very well may not know what they are doing.

More Creative Approaches for Process Servers in Oklahoma

More Creative Approaches for Process Servers in Oklahoma

            Process servers in Oklahoma can utilise many creative approaches to serving individuals who just do not want anyone to be able to find them.  In earlier posts, the staff at Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers has noted several meritorious ways in which a process server can use new methods to get legal documents to someone.  Now it is essential to proffer a few other ways that might be of use to those professionals in the legal field.

            One cool but seldom-used technique involves a baby carriage.  Who can resist peeking out the door and seeing a baby’s little carriage right there in front of their door?  If a process server is sure to add a realistic but nonliving human-looking baby and the papers to be served inside of the carriage, the person lurking in the house just might let curiosity get the better of him or her.  It is important for process servers in Oklahoma to retrieve the carriage and the toy baby thereafter, and they should not be afraid to possibly lose the props.

            Another creative method involves the use of a well-trained dog or cat.  If the person being served is hiding out and a process server wants to verify whether or not the person in question is actually living there, a cute dog or cat just might do the trick.  By delicately placing the papers right inside of the collar of a cat or in a little carrying case underneath a dog’s neck, the pet-loving person might just take the bait.  If the dog or cat is adept at pawing at doors or meowing or barking when hearing a silent whistle, process servers will find this method even more effective.  Process servers should, however, make sure to keep a close eye on their cats or dogs, as they could inadvertently become targets of possible violence with dangerous clients.

            One trick for getting someone served can be when a process server pretends to be someone who is lost and just looking for directions – especially when carrying a small child!  Most people would probably not suspect someone with a little kid to be serving papers?  Of course, Oklahoma process servers should not use this trick when the guy or girl being served could be dangerous!

           

            These are just a few of many tricks of the trade that process servers in Oklahoma can use when trying to get people who are avoiding service to come out of hiding.  There are a variety of unique and creative ways to get the job done.  Process servers who have done a little research about the people they want to serve can find out what their weaknesses and proclivities are.  Remember that Knowledge is power!  If you are a process server and wish to join the team at Oklahoma Judicial Process servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com, please visit our website and learn how!

Helping Police Officers Understand the Role of Oklahoma Process Servers

Helping Police Officers Understand the Role of Oklahoma Process Servers

            City police officers in Oklahoma can often prove to be helpful to process servers when a person they are trying to serve gets unruly or violent.  Indeed, it is important to continually build up these vital relationships with police officers, as process servers sometimes really need them in sticky situations.  However, there are also times when city police officers, none of whom perform the civil serves in Oklahoma, can really hinder your case.  There are a few very helpful tips that can help things go smoother when interacting with them.

            Firstly, it is always important to try your very best to be polite and mutually respectful.  The old adage that says, “You’ll catch more flies with honey than with vinegar” is generally true.  Police officers who know you and with whom you have built a trusting relationship with are more likely to help you than those who have an aversion to the mere sight of you. 

            It is also a good idea to let police officers know where you are going to be and for how long during stakeouts.  If you tell the dispatcher where you are and how long you plan to be there, they are likely to pass the word on to the police officers so that they do not inadvertently give away your location, identity, etc, by driving up to question you.  This open and honest dialogue will help you keep your lines of communication with them intact, and it will help improve your chances of serving the individual for your client.

            Oklahoma process servers will also always want to carry their licenses with them.  If process servers have their licenses on them and are on official business, it makes it a lot more difficult for police officers to tell them to leave, arrest them, etc.  It is really essential for process servers in Oklahoma to always carry their license on them, and it is also required by law.

            Sometimes police officers do not have a clue about what process servers do and what their rights and responsibilities are.  Thus, many of them know few if any of the laws pertaining to process servers’ work.  In cases such as this, it is extremely helpful to have a copy of the process server laws and rights on hand.  In the eyes of the law, process servers pretty much have the same rights as a sheriff’s deputy when serving papers, with a few minor exceptions. 

A copy of some of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure can be found here . . . http://www.law.cornell.edu/rules/frcp/rule_4.  Oklahoma process servers will also want to familiarise themselves with the Oklahoma Rules of Civil Procedure, which they can find here . . . http://law.justia.com/codes/oklahoma/2010/Title12/Title12.html.  Knowledge is power and protection!  Gently informing the police officers of your rights and responsibilities can help you get the serve done right!

            When process servers are performing a stakeout or are otherwise on official business, sometimes police officers might ask to see the papers they are serving.  Under Oklahoma law, the papers process servers are serving are confidential, and the police officer is not entitled to see the legal nature of the papers or the parties involved.  Police officers have their own jobs to do while process servers have theirs.  Neither one should encroach upon the other’s official duties, and sometimes process servers must stand their legal ground. 

It is possible to show the police officer the very top of the page which only shows the court of jurisdiction.  This way the officer knows you are really serving papers and are on official business.  The choice as to whether or not you show them that portion still ultimately rests with each Oklahoma process server. 

Making contacts with police lieutenants, captains and chiefs can also come in very handy.  Many police officers know nothing about the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure or the Oklahoma Rules of Civil Procedure.  Indeed, some will interfere with process servers’ duties – even if they have a copy of the rules in front of them.  If a process server in Oklahoma has worked hard to build up positive working relationships with police lieutenants, captains and chiefs, then a quick phone call to one of them might quickly settle the entire matter and let officer of the court proceed unhindered with his or her business.

It is important to remember that most police officers can be a valuable resource to process servers, though they are seldom legally able to provide helpful information.  Part of serving as a professional process server includes working together with law enforcement officials and establishing clear lines of communication.  Sometimes the education part of it comes into play with regard to the differentiation of roles, but diplomacy, tact, and a little patience can often pay off big time!  It has certainly done so for those at Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com!    

Helping Police Officers Understand the Role of Oklahoma Process Servers

Helping Police Officers Understand the Role of Oklahoma Process Servers

            City police officers in Oklahoma can often prove to be helpful to process servers when a person they are trying to serve gets unruly or violent.  Indeed, it is important to continually build up these vital relationships with police officers, as process servers sometimes really need them in sticky situations.  However, there are also times when city police officers, none of whom perform the civil serves in Oklahoma, can really hinder your case.  Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com knows this all too well.  There are a few very helpful tips that can help things go smoother when interacting with them.

            Firstly, it is always important to try your very best to be polite and mutually respectful.  The old adage that says, “You’ll catch more flies with honey than with vinegar” is generally true.  Police officers who know you and with whom you have built a trusting relationship with are more likely to help you than those who have an aversion to the mere sight of you. 

            It is also a good idea to let police officers know where you are going to be and for how long during stakeouts.  If you tell the dispatcher where you are and how long you plan to be there, they are likely to pass the word on to the police officers so that they do not inadvertently give away your location, identity, etc, by driving up to question you.  This open and honest dialogue will help you keep your lines of communication with them intact, and it will help improve your chances of serving the individual for your client.

            Oklahoma process servers will also always want to carry their licenses with them.  If process servers have their licenses on them and are on official business, it makes it a lot more difficult for police officers to tell them to leave, arrest them, etc.  It is really essential for process servers in Oklahoma to always carry their license on them, and it is also required by law.

            Sometimes police officers do not have a clue about what process servers do and what their rights and responsibilities are.  Thus, many of them know few if any of the laws pertaining to process servers’ work.  In cases such as this, it is extremely helpful to have a copy of the process server laws and rights on hand.  In the eyes of the law, process servers pretty much have the same rights as a sheriff’s deputy when serving papers, with a few minor exceptions. 

A copy of some of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure can be found here . . . http://www.law.cornell.edu/rules/frcp/rule_4.  Oklahoma process servers will also want to familiarise themselves with the Oklahoma Rules of Civil Procedure, which they can find here . . . http://law.justia.com/codes/oklahoma/2010/Title12/Title12.html.  Knowledge is power and protection!  Gently informing the police officers of your rights and responsibilities can help you get the serve done right!

            When process servers are performing a stakeout or are otherwise on official business, sometimes police officers might ask to see the papers they are serving.  Under Oklahoma law, the papers process servers are serving are confidential, and the police officer is not entitled to see the legal nature of the papers or the parties involved.  Police officers have their own jobs to do while process servers have theirs.  Neither one should encroach upon the other’s official duties, and sometimes process servers must stand their legal ground. 

It is possible to show the police officer the very top of the page which only shows the court of jurisdiction.  This way the officer knows you are really serving papers and are on official business.  The choice as to whether or not you show them that portion still ultimately rests with each Oklahoma process server. 

Making contacts with police lieutenants, captains and chiefs can also come in very handy.  Many police officers know nothing about the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure or the Oklahoma Rules of Civil Procedure.  Indeed, some will interfere with process servers’ duties – even if they have a copy of the rules in front of them.  If a process server in Oklahoma has worked hard to build up positive working relationships with police lieutenants, captains and chiefs, then a quick phone call to one of them might quickly settle the entire matter and let officer of the court proceed unhindered with his or her business.

It is important to remember that most police officers can be a valuable resource to process servers, though they are seldom legally able to provide helpful information.  Part of serving as a professional process server includes working together with law enforcement officials and establishing clear lines of communication.  Sometimes the education part of it comes into play with regard to the differentiation of roles, but diplomacy, tact, and a little patience can often pay off big time!    

Being a Process Server in Oklahoma is a Relatively Safe Profession: Tips and Tricks to Staying Safe and Having Fun

Being a Process Server in Oklahoma is a Relatively Safe Profession: Tips and Tricks to Staying Safe and Having Fun

            Many people have asked the process servers at Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com whether or not serving as a professional process server in Oklahoma is a dangerous job.  With a few exceptions, it is not nearly as dangerous as many people think, though few jobs come with absolutely no risk of some sort.  However, there are some very helpful tips that can prove invaluable to those who are process servers in Oklahoma, as they strive to remain extra safe while on the job.

            One of the most obvious things any good process server can do is to keep himself or herself in excellent physical condition.  If a conflict ever arises where a process server must defend himself or herself, having extra strength and an ability to run without tiring can come in quite handy indeed!  Investing in a gym membership or simply lifting weights, riding a bicycle, etc., can prove invaluable in confrontational situations.

            Having skills in basic self-defense can also prove to be very useful, as can carrying such weapons as pepper spray, stun guns, and guns, provided you are licensed, trained, and authorised to do so.  Knowing how and when to properly defend yourself is crucial, as each process server has the right to protect himself or herself from harm.  No one has the right to hurt you as an officer of the court in Oklahoma. 

Few, if indeed any, serves are ever worth a gun battle, and it is important to know when to call the police for assistance.  If someone becomes violent or verbally threatens a process server in any way, a person should take great caution and use discretion when deciding whether or not to use force.  If at all possible, contacting the city police or county sheriff’s department can resolve these types of issues, and thus it is important to have a good working relationship built up with law enforcement officials.  But wait – didn’t we say that working as a process server in Oklahoma was relatively safe?

Most people and places a process server delivers papers to are fairly harmless.  It is important to inquire in advance from your client as to any potential violent history a person one is about to serve might have.  In such cases, a process server can take extra care or can even bring along backup (i.e., a spotter).  A vast majority of cases, especially those at businesses, take place without incident.

If a person you are serving ever gets upset and mistakenly associates you as being the one who has filed the legal case, one of the best things a process server in Oklahoma can do is to try to diffuse the situation and downplay his or her role.  Such phrases like, “Hey.  I’m just the delivery boy,” or, “Think of me like the mailman.  You don’t get upset at the mailman [or mailwoman] when he brings you the mail, right?  Well, I’m not involved in this case in at all, so why be upset with me?”  These simple phrases can potentially diffuse anger, frustration, and other negative emotions people may have toward a process server who has brought them bad news.

Another effective technique to help keep process servers safe is to always let someone know where you are going to be and when.  This is just basic common sense, yet if something ever happened then someone would know where you were and when.  Keep in contact with your employer, a spouse, friend, etc.  It might be somewhat time consuming, but one just never knows when it can help you out!

Bullet proof vests are yet another idea for added protection, though these are often what most process servers would consider overkill.  Police officers often wear these to help protect them from dangerous criminals, but most or all of the cases process servers handle do not involve criminal complaints.  If a gun is involved, it is better to get police assistance than to try to handle the matter yourself.  Besides, bullet proof vests cannot stop many kinds of bullets, thus placing inherent limitations on their effectiveness.

Sometimes wearing an officer of the court badge and having your license on you can prove to be a helpful deterrent.  Having a pair of handcuffs on your belt can also help give people the impression that you are not someone to mess with.  Most people have no idea what an officer of the court in Oklahoma is – a process server – and they are more likely to focus on your handcuffs, the stun gun you are wearing on your belt, etc.

Process servers should use the aforementioned approach with caution, as doing these things could also make neighbours, colleagues, and the person you are trying to serve much more suspicious of you.  Indeed, they might choose not to answer the door, neighbours might provide less assistance, etc.  This is a judgment call that each person must make for himself or herself, and wise discretion is the key.

Sometimes the “innocent approach” is the most effective, nonthreatening method.  The less threat you pose and the more innocent, unsuspecting you look, the better the results you are often likely able to get.  If people do not feel like you are out to get them or cause them harm, they might be more likely to open the door and accept the papers.  Once again, each situation is different and requires careful discretion and careful consideration of all factors involved in the case.

Overall, working as a professional process server in Oklahoma is a very noble profession.  An outstanding process server can help speed up the justice process for people, and can even help provide legal protection from harm (i.e., serving VPOs).  The field of process serving does not have to be dangerous or something you should fear.  Your disability insurance adjustor should not increase your rate, either. 

When compared to other professions, just think of how many hardworking, dedicated, underpaid professional teachers and principals are assaulted by unruly students or parents.  Likewise, people have shot doctors who perform abortions in Oklahoma and elsewhere, so even physicians are not exempt.  Convenience store clerks and bank officials can get robbed and even killed, too.  Thus, when looking at process serving as a long term profession of choice, it’s relatively safe!