DFW Legal & Serve
Company
Understanding Texas Process Serving Requirements
In Texas, there is no fixed statutory number of attempts a process server must make. However, courts require due diligence — which typically means at least three attempts at different times of day and on different days of the week.
What Constitutes Due Diligence?
Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 106 governs the methods of service. To demonstrate due diligence, a process server should:
- Make multiple attempts at different times (morning, afternoon, evening)
- Attempt service on different days, including weekends
- Try alternative locations if the subject is not found at the primary address
- Document each attempt with date, time, location, and outcome
Rule 106: Approved Methods of Service
Texas allows two primary methods:
- Personal delivery — Handing documents directly to the defendant
- Substituted service — Leaving documents with a competent person at the residence or workplace
When Standard Service Fails: Rule 109
If diligent efforts fail, the serving party may file a motion under Rule 109 for substituted service by alternative means, such as publication, social media, email, or posting at the courthouse.
Non-Suit Considerations
If service is not completed, a plaintiff may non-suit (dismiss) the case and re-file later. This extends timelines and increases costs — making an experienced process server essential.
At DFW Legal & Serve Company, our process servers understand Texas civil procedure inside and out. We provide GPS-verified proof of service, detailed affidavits, and court-ready documentation.
Need reliable process serving in Dallas-Fort Worth? Call 214-601-7460 today.