A process server is a person who delivers legal documents to the people involved in a legal proceeding. The documents might be a claim, a summons, a subpoena, a notice or a court order. The process server then provides evidence, usually an affidavit, that the delivery took place.
Why proper service matters
Courts are reluctant to decide a case against a person who may not know it exists. Service is how the other party is told. If service was not done properly, a court may refuse to go ahead, adjourn the matter, or later set aside what it decided.
A process server is not a court employee
In Queensland, a process server (licensed field agent) acts in a private capacity and does not work for a court. You, as the party, choose whether to engage a private process server or a court bailiff.
Who uses process servers
- Solicitors and barristers, for court documents in their clients’ matters
- Businesses and lenders pursuing unpaid accounts
- Body corporates, landlords and property managers
- Individuals running their own matter, including divorce and family law applications
What a good process server does
- Checks the instructions: who must be served, with what, by when
- Works out where and when the person is most likely to be found
- Attends in person, identifies the person and delivers the documents correctly
- Keeps accurate notes of every attempt
- Prepares an affidavit of service the court will accept
What you should look for
Check that the person or agency is licensed, that agents carry photo identification, and that they will give you a written record of every attempt. See our guide on how to choose a process server.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed 24 October 2026. This page is general information about process serving. It is not legal advice. If you are unsure about service requirements in your matter, speak to a solicitor.