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Court Appearances: What to Expect, How to Prepare, and How You’ll Be Paid

Julia Leake avatar
Written by Julia Leake
Updated over a week ago

In some cases, a judge may request that the process server attend a court hearing to confirm service. Court appearances are a normal part of process serving, and Proof is here to help you understand what to expect, how to prepare, and how payment works.


📧 How You’ll Be Notified

If you are needed for a hearing, Proof will contact you with the details from:
courtappearances@proofserve.com

That message will include (when available):

  • Hearing date and time

  • Court name and address (or remote hearing link)

  • Case/job details

  • Any special instructions from the client or court


💵 Pay for Court Time

Process servers are paid $50/hour for time spent attending court.

To ensure payment is processed correctly, Proof must be aware of the appearance request and your attendance.


✅ What You Should Do When You Receive a Court Appearance Request

  1. Reply as soon as possible to confirm whether you can attend.

  2. If you can attend, confirm:

    • You acknowledge the date/time

    • Whether it’s in-person or remote

    • Any scheduling constraints (if relevant)

  3. If you cannot attend, notify Proof immediately (see below).


🚫 If You Can’t Attend

If you are unable to attend for any reason, it’s critical to communicate that quickly and clearly so Proof can notify the client and help coordinate next steps.

When replying, include:

  • That you’re unable to attend

  • The reason (briefly)

  • Whether you have any availability alternatives (optional)


📲 If a Client Contacts You Directly

Sometimes a client may contact a server directly about attending a hearing.

If this happens:

  • Let Proof know immediately (forward the message or summarize it)

  • Proof can help coordinate logistics and confirm expectations

  • Payment can only be issued when Proof is aware of the request


🧾 How to Prepare for the Hearing

To help the hearing go smoothly, we recommend you:

  • Review the job details and attempt history

  • Be ready to confirm service facts (dates/times/addresses/recipient details)

  • Have your affidavit and attempt notes accessible (the attorney will have a copy as well)

  • Join early if remote, or arrive early if in person

📌 Tip: Keep answers factual and job-focused. If you don’t know something, it’s okay to say so and refer the court to the affidavit record.


🔁 After the Hearing

After you attend:

  • Confirm with Proof that the hearing occurred and provide any key notes/outcomes, as well as how long you were there (from arrival to departure)

  • Proof will handle client follow-up and ensure your time is recorded for payment


❓ FAQs

Will I always be required to attend court?
No. Court appearances are occasional, but they can happen depending on the case and court requirements. This is a normal and expected part of the job.

What if the hearing gets rescheduled?
Proof will notify you of any updates as soon as we receive them.

Can I be paid if I attend without Proof being notified first?
To ensure payment, Proof must be aware of the request. If a client reaches out directly, loop us in immediately.


🆘 Need Help?

If you have questions or scheduling conflicts, contact:
courtappearances@proofserve.com

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