📦 How to Serve Motions and Legal Documents

Serving your motions properly is just as important as filing them. If the other side doesn’t get the paperwork — or you can’t prove they did — the court might ignore it. Here’s how to do it right, and on time.

📋 What Does “Service” Mean?

“Service” means legally delivering a copy of your motion or document to all other parties involved in the case — usually the other side (or their attorney), and sometimes DSS or the GAL.

✉️ How to Serve Documents

1. Make a copy of the signed motion or notice
2. Deliver by one of the legal methods:
   • 📫 Certified Mail (with return receipt)
   • 📧 Email (if the court or party agreed in writing)
   • 📦 Personal delivery by a non-party adult
   • 🧾 Sheriff or Process Server (if needed)
3. Fill out a “Proof of Service” form and file it with the Clerk
4. Keep your tracking numbers, signatures, or receipts as evidence

📄 Coming Soon

• Proof of Service Form (fillable PDF)
• Service Affidavit Template
• Motion Checklist (before you file)

🧠 Ask Sage

Need help creating a Proof of Service or choosing how to serve? Sage has your back — just say the word.