Civil Process

Civil Process

One of the statutorily prescribed duties of the Sheriff is to serve the process of the courts.  Delivering the papers of the court is a critical component of our judicial system. When the constitution says plaintiffs or defendants can compel witnesses to appear to testify, the judge can only do that if the Sheriff provides him with reliable, professional service of process.

The Sheriff uses one full-time employee for civil process. However, deputies also serve papers in some situations. The receptionist logs in processes received by the office and sends out that portion which can be served by certified mail.

In 2014, the Sheriff’s Office attempted service of 4,253 papers.  In 2015, the Sheriff’s Office attempted service of 4,244 papers and in 2016 4,417 papers.