What does "personal service" mean?

"Personal service" refers to delivering documents directly to the individual named in the legal action. This method ensures that the person is actually made aware of the legal proceedings involving them, which is a fundamental part of due process. The intent behind personal service is to provide a clear, indisputable record that the individual has received the documents, making it more difficult for the recipient to later claim that they were not aware of the legal actions against them.

This approach contrasts with serving documents through other methods, such as by mail or leaving them at a residence, which may not guarantee that the intended recipient is actually receiving the information intended for them. Personal service emphasizes direct interaction to ensure the individual is duly notified, aligning with the principles of transparency and fairness in the legal process.