First Legal Investigations Has Made International Service of Process Effortless for the Past Three Decades
International Service of Process
Effectively managing service of process across international borders demands precise execution, expert knowledge, and meticulous attention to detail.
First Legal Investigations specializes in lawful service of process abroad. Our professionals ensure that legal documents are personally served in compliance with international treaties, foreign jurisdictional rules, and U.S. court requirements. We support your case and help you avoid jurisdictional challenges by executing every international service correctly.
Why Choose First Legal for International Service of Process?
- Global Expertise and Compliance: Our experienced team handles international service in over 100 countries, adhering strictly to agreements such as the Hague Service Convention and the Inter-American Convention, as well as local jurisdictional requirements.
- Streamlined Processes: We handle all necessary documentation, translations, and compliance checks, simplifying what can often be a cumbersome and confusing procedure.
- Fast, Reliable Results: Our dedicated global network ensures timely delivery and confirmation, keeping your litigation schedule on track.
- Transparent Communication: Our expert investigators and client service team keeps you informed with regular status updates.
Our Process
- Initial Consultation and Document Review: An essential first pass to check that all requirements are met and to provide guidance on the best international service methods.
- Compliance and Preparation: A critical check to confirm your documents are correctly formatted, accurately translated, and comply fully with international treaties and local regulations.
- Service Execution: Leveraging our global network, we execute service promptly and accurately, obtaining necessary confirmations and proof.
- Reporting and Follow-up: Receive detailed reports, affidavits, and all necessary confirmations to support your legal proceedings.
Country-Specific Information
To provide tailored insights, we’ve prepared detailed guidelines and procedures for the countries where we conduct international service most frequently. Click on each tab to explore specific instructions, legal considerations, and country-specific processes for:
When serving legal documents in Canada, two primary methods are available: formal service under the Hague Service Convention and informal service through private process servers.
Formal service is enforceable and processed through Canada’s Central Authority, but it typically takes longer. Informal service, often preferred for its speed and simplicity, closely mirrors procedures in the U.S. and is widely accepted across Canadian provinces.
Translation may be necessary in Quebec, where French is the official language, especially for formal methods.
Every case is different, and requirements can vary. Connect with our team to determine the best approach for your matter.
Service in Mexico must be handled through formal channels, and the process is more complex than in many other countries. Although both the U.S. and Mexico are signatories to the Hague Service Convention, Mexico currently requires an additional layer of procedure involving Letters Rogatory, making this the only officially recognized method.
All documents must be translated into Spanish, and service is completed through Mexico’s Central Authority following strict local guidelines. Due to frequent procedural changes and administrative delays, formal service can take several months.
Informal service by a private process server is possible but not recognized by the Mexican government and may not result in an enforceable judgment. Some U.S. courts may allow it with a prior court order.
Because Mexico continues to introduce new requirements without notice, working with an experienced partner is essential. Contact our team to navigate the process with confidence and ensure all compliance steps are met.
Hong Kong is currently undergoing a legal transition, which has impacted how service of process must be handled. While still a signatory to the Hague Service Convention, recent changes now require service documents to be translated into Mandarin Chinese when using the formal method.
Formal service is processed through Hong Kong’s Central Authority and may take 4 to 6 months or longer due to ongoing system changes. This is the only method that results in an enforceable judgment.
Informal service is officially restricted under Chinese policy; however, our local process server, who holds government authorization, can legally complete service in Hong Kong. This method is significantly faster, typically taking 1–2 weeks.
Translation is not currently mandatory; however, changes can occur without notice. We monitor all regulatory updates to keep your case on track. Contact us to determine the most effective and compliant method for your matter.
China strictly enforces its service of process rules under the Hague Service Convention—the only legally recognized method. Private service, service by mail, or informal delivery methods are prohibited and may carry legal consequences.
All documents must be translated into Mandarin Chinese and submitted through China’s Central Authority. Due to procedural complexity, service can take 4 to 6 months.
Other methods, such as Letters Rogatory, are only applicable for subpoenas or evidence collection and are rarely used due to long delays.
Navigating service in China requires precision and full compliance. Contact our team to ensure your documents are handled correctly from start to finish.
Japan permits only formal service through the Hague Service Convention—no other methods are legally allowed. Service is handled exclusively by Japan’s Central Authority following strict procedural requirements.
All documents must be translated into Japanese, and additional paperwork (including the USM-94 and transmittal letters) must be prepared in compliance with local standards. The typical time frame for completion is 2 to 3 months.
Informal service, private process servers, and service by mail are strictly prohibited under Japanese law.
With no alternative options available, it’s essential to get it right the first time. Contact us to ensure your service request meets all requirements and moves forward without delay.
Germany only allows formal service under the Hague Service Convention. All documents must be submitted through the designated Central Authority and translated into German. Private service or service by mail is strictly prohibited and may result in legal penalties.
Due to procedural formality, service completion typically takes 2 to 5 months.
Informal service is not an option. Attempting it can lead to civil and criminal liability for the parties involved.
Because Germany enforces treaty compliance so rigorously, working with an experienced provider is critical. Contact our team to ensure full compliance and avoid potential delays.
Industries Served
First Legal Investigations supports law firms, corporations, insurance providers, and financial institutions with international litigation and dispute resolution, ensuring successful cross-border legal operations.
Optimize Your International Litigation Efforts
Don’t leave your international service of process to chance. Partner with a leader committed to accuracy, compliance, and responsive service.
Contact First Legal Investigations today to discuss your international service of process needs and learn how our expertise can help you achieve seamless global litigation management.