What is a 'proof of service'?

• A. A list of attempts filed with the clerk.
• B. An affidavit or certificate sworn by the server attesting to proper service and filed with the court.
• C. A notice posted on the courthouse door.
• D. A receipt from the person who was served.

Answer: (B)

A proof of service is the sworn document the process server files with the court to show that service was properly carried out. It is an affidavit or certificate signed by the server stating who was served, when, where, and by what method, and that the service followed the applicable rules. This filing provides the court with concrete evidence that the recipient was served, allowing the case to progress. It’s not just a list of attempts, a notice posted on a courthouse door, or a receipt from the person served; those do not by themselves establish formal service. The sworn affidavit or certificate is the official record that service occurred.