Family Law

Two Tips for Serving Divorce Papers to Someone Who Travels Frequently

2025 3 min read

Serving divorce papers on a person who travels frequently presents unique challenges. Citiserve Pty Ltd shares two practical tips to ensure successful service.

Serving divorce papers on a person who travels frequently — whether for work or to avoid service — presents unique challenges. Here are two practical tips from Citiserve's experienced process servers.

Tip 1: Identify Predictable Locations and Times

Even frequent travellers have predictable patterns. Consider:

  • Their workplace — most people return to their workplace regularly, even if they travel frequently
  • Their home address — they will return home between trips
  • Regular commitments — gym, church, children's school events, sporting activities
  • Travel hubs — airports and train stations if you know their travel schedule

Provide Citiserve with as much information as possible about the respondent's routine and we will plan our service attempts accordingly.

Tip 2: Consider Substituted Service

If personal service proves impossible after reasonable attempts, you may apply to the court for an order for substituted service. This allows service to be effected by an alternative method — such as:

  • Leaving the documents at the respondent's last known address
  • Service by email or social media
  • Service on a known associate or family member

To obtain an order for substituted service, you will need to demonstrate to the court that personal service has been attempted and has failed. Citiserve can provide a detailed affidavit of the attempts made to support your application.

Contact Citiserve

If you need to serve divorce papers on a person who is difficult to locate, contact Citiserve. We have the experience and resources to get the job done.

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