Can You Serve Legal Papers by Email or Social Media in Florida? Sometimes. Here’s When

In Florida, personal delivery is still the default. But in specific situations, you can ask a court for permission to serve electronically via email or other technology:

1. If a business can’t be served after diligent attempts, you can petition for email or other tech-based methods.

2. For out-of-state parties whose agent is the Secretary of State, electronic service may be allowed.

3. When serving abroad, international agreements or court-approved electronic means may apply.

The statutes that support this are §48.102, §48.161, and §48.197.

The word “technology” is intentionally broad. Courts might approve email, secure platforms, or even social media, but only if you show it’s likely to notify the party. That said, as of this date, Florida has no landmark case approving service solely via social media. It’s always a last resort, requiring due diligence and a court’s green light.

Process service via technology, including email or social media is only an option with court approval, and the bar is high. Traditional methods remain the first step.

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