What should a process server do if the defendant cannot be found after reasonable efforts?

• A. Document attempts and proceed with substituted service or publication as allowed by the rules
• B. Not applicable
• C. Wait indefinitely
• D. Serve to a neighbor

Answer: (C)

When a defendant can’t be located after reasonable efforts, you must show you’ve exercised due diligence and then use the authorized substitute methods to give notice. That means documenting every attempt—dates, addresses attempted, who you spoke with, and any leads—and filing an affidavit of due diligence with the court. Once permitted by the rules, proceed with substituted service, such as delivering to a competent adult at the defendant’s last known residence or place of business and mailing a copy to that address, or, if the defendant remains unreachable, pursuing service by publication in a newspaper for the appropriate period. These steps ensure notice is given without forcing an endless wait. Serving to a neighbor is typically not the standard method unless the rules authorize it as part of substituted service, and waiting indefinitely is not permissible.