Affidavit of Service
A sworn written statement by the process server documenting how, when, where, and upon whom service was made. Required in most Oklahoma courts to prove service was completed.
Answer
The defendant's written response to a lawsuit, which must typically be filed within 20 days of being served under Oklahoma Rules of Civil Procedure.
Certified Mail
A method of service where documents are sent through the USPS with proof of mailing and delivery confirmation. Limited applicability in Oklahoma civil cases.
CLEET
Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training. Oklahoma agency that oversees process server training, certification, and professional standards.
Due Diligence
The reasonable efforts required before a court will authorize service by publication, including multiple attempts at known addresses and searches for the defendant.
E-Service
Electronic service of process under 12 O.S. § 2004.5. Permitted only for subsequent filings (not initial service) with explicit written consent.
Good Cause
The legal standard for extending the 180-day service deadline under 12 O.S. § 2004(I). Requires showing diligent effort and reasonable excuse for delay.
Long-Arm Statute
Oklahoma law allowing courts to exercise jurisdiction over out-of-state defendants who have sufficient minimum contacts with Oklahoma.
NAPPS
National Association of Professional Process Servers. Professional organization setting industry standards; Joseph Iannazzi is member #14801.
OSCN
Oklahoma Supreme Court Network. The official online portal for Oklahoma court records, dockets, and e-filing.
Personal Service
Direct delivery of legal documents to the named defendant. The preferred and most defensible method under Oklahoma law.
Proof of Service
Documentation filed with the court proving that service of process was completed properly. Often the same as an Affidavit of Service.
Publication
Service by publishing notice in a newspaper of general circulation. Used when defendant cannot be located after due diligence. Requires court order.
Process Server
A licensed individual authorized to deliver legal documents to parties in a lawsuit. In Oklahoma, requires a $5,000 bond and court-issued license.
Service of Process
The formal delivery of legal documents (summons, complaint, subpoena) to a party to give notice of a legal proceeding.
Skip Tracing
Techniques used to locate a person who cannot be found at their last known address, including database searches and investigative methods.
Substituted Service
Service made on someone other than the named defendant at their residence or place of business, such as a family member of suitable age and discretion.
Summons
A court-issued document notifying the defendant that a lawsuit has been filed and requiring them to respond within a specified time period.
TLRCP
Title 12, Oklahoma Statutes, Rules of Civil Procedure. The primary set of rules governing civil litigation in Oklahoma state courts.
UIDDA
Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act. Oklahoma adopted this act (12 O.S. § 3253) to streamline domestication of out-of-state subpoenas.
VPO
Victim Protective Order. Oklahoma's term for a restraining order in domestic violence cases. Requires 24-hour priority service under 22 O.S. § 60.4.
Witness Fee
Payment required when serving a subpoena, covering daily attendance ($10/day) and mileage at the state rate under 28A O.S. § 28-81.
Sources & Citations
- [1]12 O.S. § 2004 — Methods of Service of Process
- [2]12 O.S. § 158.1 — Licensed Process Servers
Disclaimer
The information on "Process Serving Glossary" is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently, and the information presented may not reflect the most current legal developments. Just Legal Solutions is not a law firm, and no attorney-client relationship is created by your use of this website or any tools provided herein. For advice regarding your specific situation, please consult a licensed Oklahoma attorney. Process serving requirements may vary by county and court — always verify current rules with the appropriate court clerk.
Sources cited include Oklahoma Statutes, Oklahoma Rules of Civil Procedure, and court administrative materials. Citations are accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the publication date. Always verify statutes at oklegislature.gov or court rules at oscn.net.