What may the court do if a proof of service is not filed?

• A. Dismiss the case
• B. Grant a continuance
• C. Enter default judgment
• D. Award damages

Answer: (A)

When proof of service isn’t filed, there’s no record showing that the defendant was actually served, and the court cannot move forward with the case. Service of process establishes jurisdiction over the defendant and starts the clock for responding. Without a filed proof, the court typically dismisses the case for lack of prosecution or for failure to comply with service requirements.

Other remedies like granting a continuance might be possible if the party can still complete service and file the proof, but a default judgment or damages cannot be entered because there’s no proof that service occurred.