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Civil procedure

serving defendant with lawsuit

The defendant in a lawsuit must be served (delivered) a summons or citation (an order from the court to appear and answer the lawsuit) and a copy of the lawsuit (1) to provide due process (fairness) by giving the defendant notice of the lawsuit and the opportunity to appear in court and defend the lawsuit; and (2) to give the court personal jurisdiction (authority) over the defendant.

In Maine, as in all states, the legal process requires that a defendant in a lawsuit must be properly served with a summons or citation and a copy of the complaint initiating the lawsuit. This is to ensure due process, which is a constitutional right that guarantees fair treatment through the judicial system. Serving these documents provides the defendant with official notice of the lawsuit and the charges or claims against them, allowing them the opportunity to appear in court to defend themselves. Additionally, proper service of process is necessary for the court to establish personal jurisdiction over the defendant, which is the court's authority to make decisions regarding the defendant in the case. Maine Rule of Civil Procedure 4 details the specific methods and requirements for serving a defendant, which can include personal delivery, delivery to the defendant's residence with someone of suitable age and discretion, or other methods as permitted by the court.

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Civil procedure

serving defendant with lawsuit

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Maine State Code

Maine State Code

Civil procedure

serving defendant with lawsuit

Articles