Which term describes the lawful method of delivering service when direct delivery is not feasible?

• A. Direct service
• B. Substitute service
• C. Personal service
• D. Mail service

Answer: (B)

When direct delivery to the defendant isn’t possible, the law allows a substitute method to give proper notice. This means you first try to serve the person personally, and if that cannot be done after reasonable diligence, you may leave a copy of the papers with a suitable adult at the defendant’s home or usual place of business. After leaving with that person, you also send a copy by mail to the defendant at the same address. This approach keeps due process intact by ensuring someone close to the defendant is informed and by providing a mailed confirmation of notice.

This is why the term describes the lawful method in this scenario: it is the recognized alternative to direct personal delivery when that direct method cannot be accomplished. Direct/personal service is not feasible here, and mail alone typically doesn’t substitute for the required acknowledgment of service unless the rules allow it in combination with substitution.