Who typically delivers the summons to a defendant?

The delivery of a summons to a defendant is typically carried out by a sheriff or an authorized person. This process, known as service of process, is crucial because it formally notifies the defendant that a legal action has been initiated against them. The involvement of a sheriff or an authorized individual ensures that the summons is served in accordance with legal requirements and is considered valid. This legal requirement helps maintain the integrity of the judicial process by ensuring that defendants are adequately informed about the proceedings and have the opportunity to respond.

Other individuals, such as a court clerk or the plaintiff's attorney, may play roles in the legal process, but they are not responsible for delivering summonses directly to defendants. A defendant's representative would also not be the entity delivering the summons, as that could create potential conflicts of interest or confusion regarding the legal notice. Thus, the designated role of a sheriff or authorized person in delivering the summons is essential for ensuring that the legal process is upheld.