Civil Practice Law and Rules § 313

Service Without the State – Extending Personal Jurisdiction

Out-of-State Service Methods for Individuals Within Personal Jurisdiction

When dealing with legal matters involving individuals domiciled within the state or subject to the jurisdiction of the state’s courts, New York law provides provisions for service of summons without the state, thereby extending personal jurisdiction. This means that individuals within the state’s jurisdiction may be properly served with the summons even if they are located outside the state’s boundaries. Several authorized methods are employed for such service, ensuring that individuals’ rights are upheld regardless of their physical location.

A person domiciled in New York or subject to the state’s court jurisdiction under section 301 or 302, along with their executor or administrator, can be served with the summons outside the state. This service is executed in the same manner as if the individual were being served within the state. The process is carried out by any person who is authorized to make service within New York and is a resident of the state. Alternatively, the service may be performed by any person who is authorized to make service by the laws of the state, territory, possession, or country where the service takes place. Additionally, service can be accomplished by a duly qualified attorney, solicitor, barrister, or equivalent in the jurisdiction where the individual is located.

The purpose of allowing out-of-state service is to ensure that individuals within New York’s personal jurisdiction can still be effectively served with the summons, even if they happen to be outside the state’s borders. This is crucial to maintain fairness and adherence to legal procedures. By authorizing various methods for service, New York law caters to the practicalities of handling legal matters involving individuals who may be temporarily or permanently residing outside the state.

These provisions empower plaintiffs and legal professionals to extend the reach of New York’s courts, ensuring that individuals who are within the state’s jurisdiction can be properly notified and granted the opportunity to respond to legal actions. This reinforces the principles of due process and guarantees that individuals’ rights are safeguarded, regardless of their geographical location.