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Making the most of your first attempt

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

  • Efficiency: A successful first attempt saves time and resources—no need for multiple returns.

  • 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.

  • Professionalism: Making a high-quality first impression with subjects or neighbors reflects positively on you and ABC Legal.

✅ Preparation Checklist Before You Head Out

  1. Review the Service Details Thoroughly:

    • Double-check address, service type, subject name, and any notes from ABC Legal.

    • Review the Court and Customer Requirements as well as the Special Handling Instructions. These can be found on each job in ABC Mobile.

  2. Verify You Have the Right Documents:

    • 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.

  3. Plan Your Route Intentionally:

    • Optimize timing for success. For residential addresses, early morning, evenings, or weekends often yield better results.

    • For businesses, confirm business hours and aim for high-traffic times.

🚪 On-Site Best Practices

  1. Assess the Scene Upon Arrival:

    • Look for signs of occupancy: lights on, cars in driveway, packages, noise inside.

    • Take note of access obstacles (locked gates, security systems, etc.).

  2. Knock/Approach with Professionalism:

    • Knock/ring and wait a full 60–90 seconds.

    • Be calm, confident, and courteous.

    • 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*

  3. Document Everything:

    • 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.

    • Take photos before making your attempt —front door, house number, entry signage, physical blockers (like closed gates), etc.

📣 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.

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