Process Serving · Returns and affidavits
Affidavits of Service and Proof of Service
Every serve produces a return of service completed for the issuing court and an affidavit signed by the serving agent, tied to body-camera footage and a GPS-stamped attempt log.
Proof is the product
A serve that cannot be proved might as well not have happened. When a defendant claims they were never served, the return is the first thing the court looks at.
DFS builds proof from the field up. The affidavit reflects what the footage shows, and the attempt log fills in every visit that came before the successful one.
How proof is assembled
- Capture in the fieldThe agent records the serve and logs each attempt as it happens.
- Prepare the returnThe return and affidavit are completed from the log and footage.
- Deliver to counselDocuments are sent to you, with footage and notes available on request.
- File if requestedDFS takes the return to the clerk and provides confirmation of filing.
The proof package
Returns of service and signed affidavits tied to footage and GPS logs, filed with the clerk on request.
- Return of serviceCompleted in the form the issuing court expects.
- Signed affidavitSigned by the agent who made the serve and cross-referenced to the matching footage.
- Body-camera footageTimestamped video from approach through handoff, available to counsel on request.
- Attempt logEvery attempt with GPS location and time, including unsuccessful visits.
- Field notesObservations such as vehicles, occupants and statements made at the door.
- Clerk filingDFS files the return with the clerk when you ask.
About notarization and footage
Whether an affidavit must be notarized, and in what form the return is filed, depends on the court. Tell DFS the court's requirements at intake.
- Footage is provided to counsel on request; requests from other parties are referred to counsel.
- DFS completes proof only for serves its own agents made.
- Filing the return does not include drafting motions or other pleadings.
Questions about affidavits & proof of service
Can I get the footage for a hearing on service?
Yes. Counsel can request the clip for the serve, along with the attempt log and field notes.
Will you file the return with the clerk?
Yes, on request. Tell DFS which court and DFS will file it and send you confirmation.
What does a non-service affidavit include?
It lists each attempt with dates, times, locations and what the agent observed, drawn from the GPS log and field notes.
Guides on this topic
Longer answers from the DFS Guides & FAQ.
Related services
Next steps and alternatives that often go with this work.
Reviewed October 2026 by Delator Field Services. General information, not legal advice.
Papers ready to go out?
Send the documents and the recipient’s last known address through the request form. DFS confirms the county, tier and price in writing before the first attempt.
Questions first? Call or text (629) 310-8667 or email contact@delatorgroup.com.