The Real Disruptors in Process Service: AI or Changing Laws?
- Steve Navarrete
- Oct 31
- 2 min read
Artificial intelligence is starting to touch every corner of the legal-support industry, and process service is no different. I’ve been paying close attention to how it’s developing, not because I’m worried it’ll replace us, but because it’s already changing how we do business.
AI is helping process servers and investigators work smarter. It can pull together public records, social media posts, and address histories to locate someone faster than traditional skip tracing ever could. It can also map out service routes, and track traffic patterns. For a Miami process server, where every mile and minute counts, that’s valuable information.
On the back end, process service case management software is already auto-generate affidavits and verifying GPS or photo data. That’s helpful but it’s not a substitute for judgment in the field. Knowing when to approach, reading a situation, or handling an evasive defendant are things only human experience can teach. Technology can assist, but it can’t replace human instinct.
While AI is getting most of the attention, I believe the biggest disruptor to the process service industry right now is new legislation. Courts across the country are beginning to authorize service of process by email, social media, and even text, especially when defendants are hard to locate. These changes are redefining what “process service” means and may eventually cut into traditional in-person process service. The idea of serving someone without ever knocking on their door and handing them papers isn’t science fiction anymore, it’s already happening.
That’s why I’m keeping an eye on both fronts, the rise of AI and the push for digital service laws. Right now, the biggest disruptor isn’t AI, it’s new legislation allowing alternative methods of service. But technology moves fast, and that could change overnight. Maybe one day, one of Elon Musk’s robots will be smart enough to handle process service on its own, but for now, that still feels a long way off.
At Miami PSPI, I see AI and technology as tools to sharpen our edge, not replace it. We will continue to use innovation to improve speed, accuracy, and transparency but the heart of this work is HUMAN judgment, professionalism, and integrity....for now.
TO BE CONTINUED.
Comments