KJH Group Limited — Serving Divorce Proceedings

A practical guide to serving divorce papers and ensuring proper legal process is followed.

What does serving divorce proceedings mean?

When divorce proceedings are initiated, one party (the petitioner) must formally deliver the divorce papers to the other party (the respondent). This ensures the respondent is aware of the proceedings and has the opportunity to respond. Correct service is essential for the case to move forward.

Key points

Service provides legal proof that the respondent received the papers.
It must be carried out according to court rules and timelines.
Failure to serve properly can delay or invalidate proceedings.

Ways of service

Personal service — delivered directly to the respondent by an authorised process server.
Postal service — via tracked or recorded post (depending on court rules).
Service by court bailiff — arranged through the family court if necessary.

Steps in serving divorce proceedings

1. Obtain sealed court documents: The court issues a copy of the divorce application/petition with an official stamp or seal.
2. Choose service method: Decide whether to use postal service, a court bailiff, or an independent process server such as KJH Group Limited.
3. Deliver the papers: The papers must be delivered to the respondent following the court’s service rules. Personal service ensures the highest certainty.
4. File proof of service: After service, an affidavit or certificate of service is filed with the court to confirm the papers were delivered correctly.

Checklist — before you serve

Have the sealed divorce application/petition from the court.
Confirm the correct address of the respondent.
Choose a legally valid method of service.
Prepare proof of service form/affidavit for filing with the court.
Consider professional assistance if there are concerns about compliance or respondent cooperation.

Affidavit/Certificate of Service Template

Below is a simple affidavit/certificate of service template. Adapt it to meet court requirements before filing.

IN THE [NAME] FAMILY COURT
Case No: [Case Number]

Between:
[Petitioner Full Name]
-and-
[Respondent Full Name]

______________________________

CERTIFICATE / AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE
______________________________

I, [Full Name of Server], of [Address], state as follows:

1. On [Date], at [Time], I served the divorce petition/application and supporting documents issued by [Court name] in Case No. [Case Number] upon the Respondent, [Respondent’s full name].

2. Service was effected at [Full Address] by [method of service, e.g. personal service / recorded post].

3. I confirm that the documents served were:
   - [List of documents]

4. I believe that the facts stated in this certificate are true.

Signed: _____________________   Dated: ____________
[Name of Server]

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Frequently asked questions

Q: What if the respondent refuses to accept the papers?A: If papers are handed to the respondent, service is usually valid even if they refuse to take them. Professional process servers are trained for these scenarios.Q: What if I don’t know the respondent’s address?A: The court may allow alternative service methods, such as serving via email, social media, or notice in a newspaper, but permission is required.Q: Can I serve the papers myself?A: In most cases, service should be done by a neutral third party, not the petitioner themselves, to avoid disputes about validity.

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Contact KJH Group Limited

Our team can help manage the service of divorce proceedings quickly, discreetly, and in compliance with court rules.

Email: kjhgroupltd@gmail.com
Phone: 07733 322 739
Registered company: KJH Group Limited

Legal disclaimer: This page provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a solicitor or qualified family law professional for guidance on your individual case.