5 Things You Need to Know About Being Served: A Calgary Guide to Process Serving

Getting served with court documents can feel stressful — but it doesn’t have to be confusing. Whether you’ve been handed a small-claims notice, a family-law document, or a civil claim, knowing the basics about process service will help you respond correctly and protect your rights.

Here are five essential things every Calgarian should know about being served.

1. “Being served” is just the start, not the end

Being served means you’ve received legal paperwork that requires your attention: a claim, a notice, or a court order. It doesn’t mean you’re automatically “guilty” of anything. In most cases, it sets a deadline for you to respond. Missing that deadline can lead to default judgments, so act promptly.

2. There are different types of service, and each matters

Service can happen in several ways:

• Personal service — documents handed directly to you (most effective and commonly required).

• Substitutional service — left with someone at your home or workplace when you’re not there, posted on your residence door, or sent to you electronically via text or email.

• Registered mail or courier — used when the court permits it.

Which method is allowed depends on the type of case and the court’s rules. Professional process servers know which method works and how to document it correctly for the court.

3. Proof of service is crucial

After service, the server completes an affidavit (or proof) of service that the court relies on to confirm you were properly notified. Professional servers provide accurate, court-ready affidavits showing when, where, and how the documents were delivered. If the affidavit is flawed, the other side may need to re-serve — costing time and money.

4. You have legal rights and deadlines

Most court documents include a deadline for your response (often 20 or 30 days depending on the process). Read the paperwork carefully — it usually tells you what you must do next. If you’re unsure, contact a paralegal or lawyer immediately. Missing deadlines can result in losing the chance to defend yourself.

5. Use a professional process server to protect yourself and save time

Trying to handle service yourself can lead to mistakes: incorrect addresses, poor documentation, or missed deadlines. Using a licensed process server gives you:

• Reliable, timely service following court rules

• Detailed proof of service prepared for court

• Local knowledge of Calgary neighbourhoods and common delivery challenges

At Serve Ninja, we specialize in accurate, discreet process serving across Calgary and surrounding areas — and we provide fast affidavits so you can move forward.