A strong first attempt is the cornerstone of successful service. Whether you're working a routine serve or tackling a challenging assignment, maximizing your first attempt improves your delivery rate and can minimize the total attempts needed.
🎯 Why the First Attempt Matters
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Efficiency: A successful first attempt saves time and resources—no need for multiple returns.
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eDelivery™ Eligibility: For orders where eDelivery™ is eligible, a documented first attempt can help validate the process, increase confidence in the address viability, and ensure you get paid if the defendant accepts the documents through the eDelivery™ process.
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Professionalism: Making a high-quality first impression with subjects or neighbors reflects positively on you and ABC Legal.
✅ Preparation Checklist Before You Head Out
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Review the Service Details Thoroughly:
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Double-check address, service type, subject name, and any notes from ABC Legal.
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Review the Court and Customer Requirements as well as the Special Handling Instructions. These can be found on each job in ABC Mobile.
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Verify You Have the Right Documents:
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Ensure you're carrying the correct documents and any accompanying items (Summons and Complaint, Subpoena, eCheck, etc.). The documents needed will be listed on the Coversheet.
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Plan Your Route Intentionally:
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Optimize timing for success. For residential addresses, early morning, evenings, or weekends often yield better results.
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For businesses, confirm business hours and aim for high-traffic times.
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🚪 On-Site Best Practices
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Assess the Scene Upon Arrival:
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Look for signs of occupancy: lights on, cars in driveway, packages, noise inside.
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Take note of access obstacles (locked gates, security systems, etc.).
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Knock/Approach with Professionalism:
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Knock/ring and wait a full 60–90 seconds.
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Be calm, confident, and courteous.
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If no one answers the door or they tell you "Unknown"- speak with a neighbor as part of the first attempt.
*Do a phone attempt right after, if permitted*
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Document Everything:
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Record detailed notes in ABC Mobile: Who answered? What was said? What did you observe? Use the provided options in ABC Mobile whenever you can.
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Take photos before making your attempt —front door, house number, entry signage, physical blockers (like closed gates), etc.
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📣 We surveyed our most successful process servers asking "What helps you be successful when making attempts?"
The most consistent answer:
- Showing up at the door non-confrontationally (you're providing a service!)
- Having empathy and understanding (sometimes, you're delivering bad news)
- Being clear and kind in their communication (people are more willing to provide thorough details if they understand the situation)
📸 Ensure your attempt includes all Attempt Reporting Requirements when submitting it in ABC Mobile.