Process Server

If anybody could help please,this whole divorce has been going on for 2 years with my stbx dragging his feet to the point of me having to pay a Process server,The Process Server has now served the divorce papers to my stbx,how long does the courts give him to return signed papers,and if my stbx still doesn`t sign the papers what happens next.

He''s got seven days to acknowledge service. After 14 days you can apply for a decree using the bailiff''s statement as proof of service.

Thank you for the quick reply do you know if I have to use the bailiffs statement if this is going to cost me anymore money apart from having to pay for the absolute

Bailiffs have a lower/slower success rate. Process servers charge for the time they spend but if service is effected on the first attempt the costs can be as little as £50 + VAT. The bailiff charges £100 including VAT.

Charles

sorry charles I dont think I put it right the process server has served the papers on my stbx what im asking is if my stbx still does not sign the papers and i have to use the process servers statement as proof of service will this cost me anymore in court fees apart from the £45 for the absolute

angel_fire

Ah, I see. You use the affidavit of service as proof that the respondent has been served with the Petition when you apply for a Decree Nisi.

If a judge believes that you are entitled to a decree Nisi a ''certificate of entitlement to decree nisi'' is issued and you then wait for 6 weeks and 1 day before applying for your Decree Absolute with the £45 that you mention.

There is no additional fee for following the process as described above although you will have to pay to swear your special procedure affidavit which will be £7 unless you get it sworn at court in which case it will be free.

Charles

thank you so much for the quick reply charles hopefully this will all be over soon and i can get on with the rest of my life

angel_fire