Affidavit of Service

What is an Affidavit of Service?

2021 4 min read

An Affidavit of Service — also known as a Proof of Service or Return of Service — is an important document provided by process servers after they have successfully served documents to someone.

An Affidavit of Service — also known as a Proof of Service or Return of Service — is an important document provided by process servers after they have successfully served documents to someone. This affidavit is a notarized testimony signed by the server that details the time, date, manner of service, identity of the person served and other details of the job.

Why is an Affidavit of Service Important?

Courts require proof that legal documents have been properly served before proceedings can continue. Without a valid Affidavit of Service, a court may refuse to hear your matter or may adjourn proceedings, causing costly delays.

The affidavit creates a formal record that can be filed with the court and used as evidence that service was effected in accordance with the rules. It protects both the serving party and the court process.

What Does an Affidavit of Service Contain?

  • The full name and address of the person served
  • The date, time and location of service
  • The manner in which service was effected (personal service, substituted service, etc.)
  • A description of the person served (if personal service)
  • The documents that were served
  • The process server's signature, sworn before a Justice of the Peace or solicitor

Who Can Swear an Affidavit of Service?

In NSW and across Australia, an Affidavit of Service must be sworn or affirmed before an authorised witness — typically a Justice of the Peace, solicitor, barrister, or notary public. At Citiserve, all our process servers are experienced in preparing court-compliant affidavits accepted by all NSW courts and tribunals.

Citiserve's Affidavit of Service

Every serve completed by Citiserve Pty Ltd is accompanied by a detailed sworn Affidavit of Service. Our affidavits include GPS-verified location data and are accepted by all NSW courts, the Federal Court, Family Court, and all other Australian jurisdictions.

If you need documents served and require a court-compliant affidavit, contact Citiserve today for a fast, no-obligation quote.

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