Which situation can invalidate proceedings, cause delays, or lead to dismissal?

• A. Non-service
• B. Improper service
• C. Proof of service
• D. Dismissal notice

Answer: (B)

Valid service is what gives the court jurisdiction over the defendant and ensures due process. When service is improper—meaning the documents were not served according to the rules, such as to the wrong person, at the wrong address, or by an invalid method—the service may not be considered effective. That deficiency can invalidate the proceedings, cause delays while you correct the service (often by re-serving correctly), and in some cases lead to dismissal if proper service cannot be achieved or if deadlines tied to service are missed. Non-service also causes delays and may require re-service, but improper service directly relates to failing to meet the required service rules that establish jurisdiction; proof of service supports moving forward, and a dismissal notice is a procedural alert rather than the root cause of invalidity.