In the dynamic legal landscape of Michigan, reliable and efficient process service is paramount to the success of legal proceedings. Undisputed Legal Inc. is the leading provider of Michigan process service, getting legal documents delivered accurately and in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations. Our team of experienced process servers navigates the complex legal system of Michigan, serving a wide range of documents, including summonses, complaints, subpoenas, and more. Our commitment to professionalism, advanced technology, and in-depth knowledge of local laws gives our clients a seamless and practical process-serving experience. Read our What Do Process Servers in Michigan Do?
We serve all papers in all 50 states. Fees are automatically calculated at checkout based on the service address.
ROUTINE — $200 (First attempt within 3–7 business days)
RUSH — $300 (First attempt within 24–48 business hours)
EMAIL/MAIL — $75 (Where permitted; sent within 24 business hours)
STAKE-OUT — $425 (Includes 1 hour waiting time; each additional hour $150) — arranged by phone: (800) 774-6922.
Includes 3 attempts (morning/afternoon/evening) + notarized Affidavit of Service/Due Diligence. Additional individuals: 50% off (same address/same order).
Place Order Online | Call (800) 774-6922
Proper service of process is a critical component of due process in legal proceedings. In Michigan, where the legal system is known for its intricacies, it is crucial to entrust your legal documents to skilled professionals who understand the nuances of local laws and regulations. Improper service of legal documents can lead to costly delays, dismissed cases, and other legal complications that can hinder the progress of your case. Read our How To Serve Legal Papers in Michigan.
At Undisputed Legal Inc., our experienced process servers deeply understand the Michigan legal system. We give all parties involved in a legal matter proper notice by state laws and regulations, such as the Michigan Court Rules, which govern the service of process in the state. Our process servers are knowledgeable about the specific requirements for serving various legal documents, including the relevant deadlines, methods of service, and proof of service requirements. Read our guide Michigan Rules of Civil Procedure: A Comprehensive Guide to Process Serving and Subpoenas on the rules and laws process servers must follow; it is in the resources section below.
By selecting Undisputed Legal Inc. for your Michigan process service needs, you can have confidence knowing that your legal documents are in capable hands. Our process servers prioritize discretion, professionalism, and attention to detail, and sensitive legal matters are handled with the utmost care and confidentiality. We take pride in our ability to navigate even the most challenging cases, including those involving elusive defendants or witnesses, and we utilize advanced skip-tracing techniques to locate and serve individuals who may be challenging to find.
At Undisputed Legal Inc., we embrace innovation and harness cutting-edge technology to streamline our process serving services and provide our clients with unmatched transparency and efficiency. Our investment in advanced tools and systems allows us to optimize operations, reduce turnaround times, and deliver superior results. Read our information on how Digital Transformation is Revolutionizing The Process Service Industry.
One of the key benefits of working with Undisputed Legal Inc. is our real-time updates feature. Our clients receive personalized, up-to-the-minute notifications on the status of their service, keeping them informed every step of the way. Whether it’s confirmation of document receipt, updates on service attempts, or notification of successful delivery, our clients have access to the information they need, when they need it.
In addition to real-time updates, we utilize GPS verification technology to enhance the accuracy and verifiability of our affidavits of service. Our process servers are equipped with devices whose GPS verification records the precise time, date, and location of each service attempt. This information is seamlessly integrated into our affidavits of service, providing an additional layer of credibility and transparency. With GPS-verified affidavits, our clients can have confidence in the validity of the service process and be better prepared to defend the service in court if necessary.
We also prioritize the security and accessibility of our client’s information. Our secure online portal allows clients to easily place orders, track progress, and access essential documents, such as affidavits of service, at any time. We understand the sensitive nature of legal documents and take every precaution to protect our client’s confidential information, employing industry-standard security measures to safeguard data integrity.
One of the most significant challenges in process service is locating evasive defendants or witnesses who actively avoid being served. At Undisputed Legal Inc., we have honed our skills in skip tracing and employ advanced techniques to track down even the most elusive individuals. Our team of experienced process servers combines their investigative expertise with cutting-edge technology to gather information and locate the individuals who must be served. Read our How Skip Tracing Works.
Our skip tracing process begins with a thorough analysis of the available information about the individual, including their last known address, employment history, associates, and other relevant data points. We then leverage an extensive network of databases and information sources to uncover additional leads and potential whereabouts. Our process servers are trained to think creatively and follow every possible trail to locate the individual. Read our How Skip Tracing Can Improve Debt Recovery Process.
Our skip-tracing services extend beyond just locating individuals. Once we have identified potential addresses or whereabouts, our process servers employ strategic approaches to make contact and effectuate service. We understand the importance of timing, discretion, and persistence in these sensitive situations, and we adapt our tactics to maximize the chances of successful service while maintaining the highest ethical standards.
At Undisputed Legal Inc., we are committed to delivering exceptional process service results and unparalleled professionalism and customer service. We understand that our clients entrust us with sensitive legal matters, and we take that responsibility seriously. From the moment you contact us, you can expect attentive, responsive, and knowledgeable support from our dedicated team.
Our process servers are skilled in the technical aspects of service of process and trained in the art of professional communication and conflict resolution. They understand the delicate nature of legal proceedings and approach each case with the utmost respect, discretion, and sensitivity. Whether interacting with clients, defendants, or witnesses, our process servers maintain a professional demeanor, getting all parties treated courteously and respectfully.
We believe in open and transparent communication with our clients. Our team is always ready to answer questions, provide updates, and offer guidance throughout the process serving journey. We take the time to listen to our clients’ concerns, understand their unique needs, and tailor our services accordingly. We aim to build long-term relationships based on trust, reliability, and exceptional service.
What is process service in Michigan?
Process service in Michigan is the legal delivery of court documents—such as summonses, complaints, subpoenas, and motions—to individuals or entities involved in a lawsuit. This gives all parties proper notice as required by the Michigan Court Rules (MCR).
Do you serve all counties in Michigan?
Yes. We provide process service across all 83 counties in Michigan, including major areas like Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Ann Arbor, Flint, Warren, Sterling Heights, and rural communities across the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. The county map below links the counties with their own local pages, among them Macomb County (Sterling Heights, Clinton Township and Warren).
How do you become a process server in Michigan?
The Michigan Court Rules and the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, chapter 19, state who may serve civil process. Under MCR 2.103(A), “Process in civil actions may be served by any legally competent adult who is not a party or an officer of a corporate party.” MCL 600.1908(1) provides that “Process in civil actions may be served by any person of suitable age and discretion who is not a party nor an officer of a corporate party.” Under MCR 2.103(B), “A writ of restitution or process requiring the seizure or attachment of property may only be served by” “a sheriff or deputy sheriff, or a bailiff or court officer appointed by the court for that purpose,” and under MCR 2.103(D), “Process in civil proceedings requiring the arrest of a person may be served only by a sheriff, deputy sheriff, or police officer, or by a court officer appointed by the court for that purpose.” The Rules are quoted from the Michigan Supreme Court’s own publication of the Michigan Court Rules.
What are the Michigan court rules for service of process?
Service of a summons and complaint in a civil action in the trial courts of Michigan is governed by MCR 2.102 to 2.106 (the Michigan Court Rules) and MCL 600.1901 to 600.1920 (Revised Judicature Act of 1961, chapter 19): MCR 2.102 (“Summons; Expiration of Summons; Dismissal of Action for Failure to Serve”), MCR 2.103 (“Process; Who May Serve”), MCR 2.104 (“Process; Proof of Service”), MCR 2.105 (“Process; Manner of Service”) and MCR 2.106 (“Notice by Posting or Publication”). Under MCR 2.102(D), “A summons expires 91 days after the date the summons is issued.” MCR 2.105(A) provides that “Process may be served on a resident or nonresident individual by” (1) “delivering a summons and a copy of the complaint to the defendant personally; or” (2) “sending a summons and a copy of the complaint by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, and delivery restricted to the addressee. Service is made when the defendant acknowledges receipt of the mail.” The methods section below sets out the rules for substituted service, service on an agent, service on corporations and limited liability companies, and notice by posting or publication.
Do you serve subpoenas in Michigan, including subpoenas from other states?
Yes. Subpoenas are among the court documents we serve in Michigan. For a subpoena issued in another state, Michigan follows the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act (UIDDA), under which out-of-state subpoenas are served in Michigan; our guides How To Domesticate A Foreign Subpoena in Michigan and Uniform Interstate Deposition and Discovery Act in Michigan and our Subpoena Services page are in the resources section below.
Will I receive proof of service for filing in Michigan?
Yes. Once service is complete, we provide a notarized Affidavit of Service or Return of Service that meets Michigan Court Rule 2.104 and is ready for official filing. MCR 2.104(A) provides that “Proof of service may be made by” (3) “a written statement of the facts of service, verified under MCR 1.109(D)(3). The statement shall include the manner, time, date, and place of service, and indicate the process server’s official capacity, if any.” and MCR 2.104(B) that “Failure to file proof of service does not affect the validity of the service.” The After Service section below sets out the proof of service and its filing.
How are divorce papers served in Michigan, and who can serve them?
Who may serve them and how is set by the Michigan Court Rules quoted below. Under MCR 2.103(A), “Process in civil actions may be served by any legally competent adult who is not a party or an officer of a corporate party.” The manner of service is set by MCR 2.105, quoted in the methods section below. Our guides What Happens After Divorce Papers Are Served? A Legal Guide and How To Avoid Common Pitfalls Serving Divorce Papers: What You Need To Know are in the resources section below.
Clients rely on us for:
In the complex legal landscape of Michigan, reliable and efficient process service is essential for the smooth administration of justice. Undisputed Legal Inc. is the premier choice for Michigan process service, offering a combination of expertise, technology, and customer-centric service that sets us apart from the competition.
With our comprehensive range of service options, including service by email and mail, advanced skip-tracing capabilities, and commitment to professionalism, we get your legal documents delivered accurately, efficiently, and in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Our experienced process servers, equipped with cutting-edge technology and extensive knowledge of local rules, navigate the complexities of service of process with skill and precision.
When you choose Undisputed Legal Inc. for your Michigan process service needs, you gain a trusted partner dedicated to your success. We understand the stakes involved in legal proceedings and work tirelessly to provide the highest service and support. With our real-time updates, GPS-verified affidavits, and secure online portal, you can have peace of mind knowing that your process service is in capable hands.
Don’t let improper service of process derail your legal case. Trust the experts at Undisputed Legal Inc. to deliver the results you need when you need them. Contact us today to learn more about our premier Michigan process service solutions and experience the difference of working with a leader in the industry.
Service of a summons and complaint in a civil action in the trial courts of Michigan is governed by MCR 2.102 to 2.106 (the Michigan Court Rules) and MCL 600.1901 to 600.1920 (Revised Judicature Act of 1961, chapter 19), quoted here from the Michigan Supreme Court (the Michigan Court Rules) and the Michigan Legislature (the Michigan Compiled Laws). Under MCR 2.102(A), “On the filing of a complaint, the court clerk shall issue a summons to be served as provided in MCR 2.103 and 2.105.” and under MCR 2.102(D), “A summons expires 91 days after the date the summons is issued.” The Rule names who may serve: MCR 2.103(A) provides that “Process in civil actions may be served by any legally competent adult who is not a party or an officer of a corporate party.” and MCL 600.1908(1) that “Process in civil actions may be served by any person of suitable age and discretion who is not a party nor an officer of a corporate party.” MCL 600.1801(1) provides that “When any process or order, issued by any court of record, or any complaint or other paper, is delivered to any sheriff, under-sheriff or deputy to serve, such officer shall serve the same with all convenient speed, and shall return the same with his certificate endorsed thereon, of the time and manner of such service, either to the office of the clerk of the court in which such suit or proceeding is pending, or to the attorney whose name is endorsed on the process, order, complaint or paper.” Our work across Michigan is the service the Rule opens to a private server: personal service under MCR 2.105(A)(1), the skip trace that locates the defendant, and the documented record of every attempt. The methods are these:
Service in Michigan is directed from our Chicago office, 155 North Wacker Drive, 42nd Floor, Chicago, IL 60606, telephone (312) 267-1227.
MCR 2.104 (“Process; Proof of Service”) sets out what is recorded and filed after process is served, and under MCL 600.1910(1), “Proof of service of process must be made by 1 of the following methods:”. The Rule speaks of the “proof of service”; MCL 600.1801(1), of the “certificate endorsed thereon, of the time and manner of such service”; in common commercial practice the same record is called an affidavit of service.
The proof of service. MCR 2.104(A) provides that “Proof of service may be made by” (1) “written acknowledgment of the receipt of a summons and a copy of the complaint, dated and signed by the person to whom the service is directed or by a person authorized under these rules to receive the service of process;” (2) “a certificate stating the facts of service, including the manner, time, date, and place of service, if service is made within the State of Michigan by” “(a) a sheriff, (b) a deputy sheriff or bailiff, if that officer holds office in the county in which the court issuing the process is held, (c) an appointed court officer, (d) an attorney for a party;” or (3) “a written statement of the facts of service, verified under MCR 1.109(D)(3). The statement shall include the manner, time, date, and place of service, and indicate the process server’s official capacity, if any.” MCL 600.1910(1)(c) provides that “If service is made by any other individual, a written statement of the facts of service that is signed and dated and verified by the following statement: “I declare under the penalty of perjury that this proof of service has been examined by me and that its contents are true to the best of my information, knowledge, and belief.””
“Failure to File.” MCR 2.104(B) provides that “Failure to file proof of service does not affect the validity of the service.” and MCL 600.1910(2) that “Failure to make proof of service does not affect the validity of the service.”
“Publication, Posting, and Mailing.” MCR 2.104(C) provides that “If the manner of service used requires sending a copy of the summons and complaint by mail, the party requesting issuance of the summons is responsible for arranging the mailing and filing proof of service.”
“Expiration of Summons”. MCR 2.102(D) provides that “A summons expires 91 days after the date the summons is issued.” and MCR 2.102(E)(1) that “On the expiration of the summons as provided in subrule (D), the action is deemed dismissed without prejudice as to a defendant who has not been served with process as provided in these rules, unless the defendant has submitted to the court’s jurisdiction.”
Amendment. MCL 600.1905(3) provides that “At any time and upon such terms as it deems just, the court may in its discretion allow any process or proof of service thereof to be amended, unless it clearly appears that material prejudice would result to the substantial rights of the party against whom the process issued.”
Filing. Under MCL 600.1905(1), “Upon the filing of the complaint the clerk of the court in which the complaint is filed shall forthwith issue summons.” and under MCL 600.1801(1), “shall return the same with his certificate endorsed thereon, of the time and manner of such service, either to the office of the clerk of the court in which such suit or proceeding is pending, or to the attorney whose name is endorsed on the process, order, complaint or paper.”
Michigan’s courts form one system. The State of Michigan — Judicial Branch states that “Under this principle the judicial system functions as an integrated unit consisting of one supreme court, one court of appeals, one trial court (known as the circuit court), and several trial courts of limited jurisdiction.” and that “Michigan has three trial courts—circuit, district, and probate.”
Michigan’s courts form one system. The state portal states that “The court system in Michigan has three levels: Trial Courts, Court of Appeals, and the Supreme Court.” Service of process in a civil action is governed by chapter 2 of the Michigan Court Rules — MCR 2.102 (“Summons; Expiration of Summons; Dismissal of Action for Failure to Serve”), MCR 2.103 (“Process; Who May Serve”), MCR 2.104 (“Process; Proof of Service”), MCR 2.105 (“Process; Manner of Service”) and MCR 2.106 (“Notice by Posting or Publication”) — and MCL 600.1901 to 600.1920 (Revised Judicature Act of 1961, chapter 19), quoted on this page from the Michigan Supreme Court (the Michigan Court Rules) and the Michigan Legislature (the Michigan Compiled Laws).
The state is divided into 83 counties. The State Court Directory: judicial circuits, 57; District Court, 138; County Probate Court, 73; Probate District, 10; Municipal Court, 4; County Clerk, 82 of the 83 counties. Under MCL 600.1905(1), “Upon the filing of the complaint the clerk of the court in which the complaint is filed shall forthwith issue summons. Separate summons may issue against any defendant.” and under MCL 600.1905(2), “The form of all summons shall be “In the name of the people of the state of Michigan.””
The Rule names who may serve: MCR 2.103(A) provides that “Process in civil actions may be served by any legally competent adult who is not a party or an officer of a corporate party.” and MCL 600.1908(1) that “Process in civil actions may be served by any person of suitable age and discretion who is not a party nor an officer of a corporate party.” Under MCR 2.103(B), “A writ of restitution or process requiring the seizure or attachment of property may only be served by” “a sheriff or deputy sheriff, or a bailiff or court officer appointed by the court for that purpose,”. Under MCL 600.1910(2), “Failure to make proof of service does not affect the validity of the service.”
Federal matters arising in Michigan fall within one of two judicial districts under 28 U.S.C. § 102: the Eastern District — the Southern Division (13 counties; court held at Ann Arbor, Detroit, Flint and Port Huron); the Northern Division (21 counties; court held at Bay City); the Western District — the Southern Division (34 counties; court held at Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Lansing and Traverse City); the Northern Division (15 counties; court held at Marquette and Sault Sainte Marie). Appeals lie to the United States Court of Appeals for the “Sixth” circuit; 28 U.S.C. § 41 provides, for the “Sixth” circuit, “Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee.”
“Service of Process”. The Michigan Department of Attorney General states that “Lawsuits naming other state officers and state agencies, like the Governor or the Michigan Department of Treasury, must be served directly on the state officer or state agency.” “The Department of Attorney General will not accept service for other officers or agencies unless they give explicit authorization to do so in a specific case.” “Only certain attorneys within the Department of Attorney General are authorized to accept service of process on the Attorney General or the Department.” and “For service by certified mail, the following address should be used for the Attorney General or the Department of Attorney General:” “Department of Attorney General” “P.O. Box 30212” “Lansing, MI 48909”
For service of process the practical unit is the county: under MCR 2.105(G), “Service of process on a public, municipal, quasi-municipal, or governmental corporation, unincorporated board, or public body may be made by serving a summons and a copy of the complaint on:” (1) “the chairperson of the board of commissioners or the county clerk of a county”. The city and county pages linked from this page carry the local detail.
We serve every county in Michigan; the counties below have their own local pages, and more are added as they are completed.
Undisputed Legal serves all 83 Michigan counties · Highlighted: counties with dedicated local pages
Submitting your documents for process service is made easy with multiple convenient methods provided. Choose the option that suits you best:
Payment Information:
Please note that we require pre-payment for all requests. We accept all major credit and debit cards for payment. Once your payment is processed, please include a copy of your sales receipt prior to faxing or emailing your documents.
Important Reminder:
For any further questions or inquiries regarding process servers, please refer to our “Frequently Asked Questions” page, which provides valuable information and insights into the process service procedure.
By choosing the most suitable option from the above methods, you can confidently submit your documents for process service. Our commitment to efficiency and security ensures that your legal papers are handled professionally and delivered promptly to the intended recipients. Thank you for choosing us for your process service needs.
New York: (212) 203-8001 – One World Trade Center 85th Floor, New York, New York 10007
Brooklyn: (347) 983-5436 – 300 Cadman Plaza West, 12th Floor, Brooklyn, New York 11201
Queens: (646) 357-3005 – 118-35 Queens Blvd, Suite 400, Forest Hills, New York 11375
Long Island: (516) 208-4577 – 626 RXR Plaza, 6th Floor, Uniondale, New York 11556
Westchester: (914) 414-0877 – 50 Main Street, 10th Floor, White Plains, New York 10606
Connecticut: (203) 489-2940 – 500 West Putnam Avenue, Suite 400, Greenwich, Connecticut 06830
New Jersey: (201) 630-0114 - 101 Hudson Street, 21 Floor, Jersey City, New Jersey 07302
Washington DC: (202) 655-4450 - 1717 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. 10th Floor, Washington, D.C. 20006
Houston, TX: (713) 564-9677 - 700 Louisiana Street, 39th Floor, Houston, Texas 77002
Chicago IL: (312) 267-1227 - 155 North Wacker Drive, 42 Floor, Chicago, Illinois 60606
Los Angeles CA: (213) 808-5959 - 355 South Grand Avenue, Suite 2450, Los Angeles, CA 90071
Simply pick up the phone and call Toll Free (800) 774-6922 or click the service you want to purchase. Our dedicated team of professionals is ready to assist you. We can handle all your process service needs; no job is too small or too large!
Contact us for more information about our process service and legal support agency. We are ready to provide service of process to all of our clients globally from our offices in New York, Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island, Westchester, Greenwich, Connecticut, Jersey City, New Jersey, Washington, D.C., Houston, Texas, and Chicago, Illinois.
“Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction, and skillful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives”– Foster, William A
How long does service take?
Routine service is typically completed within 3–7 business days. Rush service is generally attempted within 24–48 hours.
How many attempts are included?
Standard service includes up to three attempts at different times of day when required.
Will I receive proof of service?
Yes. Once service is completed, the signed affidavit will be uploaded to your secure portal.
What documents are required?
You must upload court-stamped documents or finalized copies ready for service.
Can I track the status of my case?
Yes. Log into your account at any time to view your case timeline and attempts.