How does a constable document the service of legal papers?

A constable documents the service of legal papers by completing a service return or affidavit. This formal documentation serves multiple purposes. First, it provides a legal record of the service process, establishing that the papers were successfully delivered to the intended recipient in a manner consistent with legal requirements. The service return or affidavit typically includes important details such as the date and time of service, the manner in which the service was accomplished, and the identity of the person served.

Using this formal approach is crucial because it can be submitted to the court as proof of service, which may be necessary for subsequent legal procedures. Additionally, such documentation helps maintain transparency and accountability within the process of serving legal papers, ensuring that the rights of all parties involved are protected.

While other methods, such as obtaining a signature from the recipient or taking a photographic record, may seem plausible, they do not provide the same level of legal verification and official documentation required in legal proceedings. Thus, completing a service return or affidavit is the most reliable and recognized method for documenting the service of legal papers.