PS 101 – Chapter 3 – Article 2 – Tools Every Process Server Needs – Training 4 Private Investigators and Process Servers

Every trade or profession has a certain set of tools which not only assist the user of those tools to correctly complete an assignment but also help define the person in possession of those tools as an expert or professional. Gathered here is a listing of many of the tools every process server needs in order to carry out his mission efficiently and effectively. By no means is this listing complete as there are, depending on circumstances, other tools, items, and equipment which can be put to good use in serving process.

This listing is directed towards process servers who work in the field on a regular basis.

(A)	Communications
	(1)	Cell Phone
		Your office or your client’s need to be able to contact you with little effort and on a moments notice. Get a good phone, one that fits military specifications if possible. You can count on dropping it (invariably in a puddle of water). They are also useful in calling law enforcement if you get into a “situation.”
	(2)	Pager
		At the time of this writing (2010) pagers are on their way out of service. Use one if you must but a cell phone is a better choice.
	(3)	E-mail/texting
		Many cell phones come with e-mail and texting capabilities. Depending on your specific circumstances the benefits may well out weigh the cost of the added service.
	(4)	Bluetooth
		Using a Bluetooth appliance with your cell phone is a necessity. Many states are making it a traffic violation to use a cell phone while driving unless it has a hands free capability. Bluetooth devices make a lot of sense especially if they have voice recognition/activation. Well worth the small investment.
(B)	Writing tools
	(1)	Pen
		One or more of these should be carried on your person at all times while serving. You never know when you’ll need to make a quick note on the palm of your hand or ask a servee to sign a form after being served. They also make excellent defensive weapons.
	(2)	Note pad
		As with a pen you should carry a pad of paper when ever possible. They are useful in getting servee signatures, making notes, and as a defensive weapon against dogs. When turned with the flat side facing the dog it has the effect of confusing most of them and allowing you the opportunity to back up to your car door.
	(3)	Clip board
		These come with either a conventional fiberboard back, metal back, or fiberglass. Using one takes you a step beyond carrying a simple note pad. Some models come with a compartment which is useful for keeping the service documents out of view and out of the elements. They also make an excellent defensive weapon.
(C)	Miscellaneous
	(1)	Envelopes of various sizes and postage stamps
		Mailings are required to complete certain services.
	(2)	Cash and spare change
		These are needed to cover parking, tolls, ferry crossings, witness fees, etc
	(3)	Time piece & calendar
		You need to note the time of each service and be able to plan your day effectively. This can be a watch, car clock, cell phone clock, etc. Having a calendar available helps you to determine service deadlines and otherwise plan what you are doing over the next several days to a few weeks.
	(4)	Directional equipment
		Always carry good maps or a GPS device. Both can be expensive but are indispensable in helping work out tight service routes which will save money in the long run.
	(5)	Push pins, blue sticking tape, 1″x2″ or 2″x2″ 4′ stakes, heavy hammer or small sledge hammer, stapler & staples
		These are needed for posting assignments. The blue sticking tape can be found in most hardware stores. It won’t damage the material on which it is used.
	(6)	Post-It notes
		Handy to have but do not use them for anything of value. If you do write something important on one then transfer it as soon as possible to a full sized (8-1/2 x 11) piece of paper.
	(7)	Rubber bands, paper clips, and other small items
		You never know what you’ll need or when you’ll need it. Look at your desk at the office and duplicate much of what you have there in a box or container in your car.
	(8)	Reliable car which gets good gas mileage
		Take care of your car or what ever it is you use to get around. Keep up a good maintenance schedule. Change the oil regularly. Every time you fuel up walk around your car and examine it closely.
	(9)	Binoculars
		Seldom used but when you need them nothing else will do.
	(10)	Camera
		Needed when posting documents (foreclosure or landlord/tenant). Creates a visual record of the posted document.

Update 02-06-2019 – Over the past nine years technology has advanced in a variety of areas as it relates to service of process. There now a number of applications which operate on a cell phone which record many of the details of a service or an attempt. These include the date, time, location of the event. Almost all phones have built in cameras.

This quiz is for logged in users only.