In process serving practice, what should be documented when a recipient refuses service on first attempt?

• A. Only the refusal.
• B. The refusal and any substituted service attempt.
• C. Only the substituted service.
• D. No documentation is required.

Answer: (B)

When a recipient refuses service on the first attempt, you must document both the refusal and any substituted service attempt. This creates a complete, auditable record of what happened and shows that you pursued the next authorized method if direct delivery was refused. Include details such as date, time, location, the method used, and what occurred with the person refused; then add specifics of the substituted service attempt (where you left the papers, with whom, etc.). Recording only the refusal or only the substituted method leaves the service trail incomplete, and no documentation is not appropriate.