Introduction
When someone is ‘served’ it means they have been legally notified of a court case or other legal action. If you are served, it means that you are either being sued or a court order has been issued for you to appear in court. Being served can be a stressful situation, and it’s important to know your rights and how to protect them if you ever find yourself in this position. In this article, we will explore eight strategies for avoiding being served.
Know the Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations is the time limit in which a creditor can pursue a debt. This varies according to the type of debt and state where the debt was incurred. It is important to know the statute of limitations for any debts that you may owe so that you can ensure that the debt does not exceed the legal time limit. After the statute of limitations has expired, the debt is no longer legally enforceable.
Make Sure You Are Being Served Properly
It is also important to make sure you are being served properly. The process server must follow certain laws when serving paperwork, and if they don’t, the service may not be valid. These laws vary by state, so it’s important to be familiar with the rules in your area. For example, some states require the process server to announce their presence before handing over the paperwork.
File an Answer to Complaint
If you are served with a legal complaint, it is important to file an answer within the required timeframe. By filing an answer, you can dispute the allegations made against you and present your own evidence. This may help you avoid being served in the future, as the court may take your response into consideration.
Hide Out
If you know that you are about to be served, one option is to try and hide out. This may involve changing your place of residence or even your job. While this may sound extreme, it can be an effective way to avoid being served. Of course, this should only be done as a last resort and should only be done after consulting with a lawyer.
Change Your Address
Another way to make it harder for someone to serve you with legal papers is to change your address. This could involve moving to another city or even another state. However, keep in mind that process servers can still track you down if they have your Social Security number or other identifying information.
Hire a Lawyer
If you are being served with legal papers, it is important to hire a lawyer who is experienced in navigating the legal process. An experienced lawyer can help you understand your rights and find ways to avoid being served. They can also help you understand the statute of limitations and make sure your debt doesn’t exceed the legal time limit.
Conclusion
Being served isn’t something you want to experience. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid being served. From understanding the statute of limitations to making sure you are being served properly, to hiding out and changing your address, there are many strategies you can use to protect yourself from legal action. If all else fails, hiring a lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and find ways to avoid being served.
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