Q: Mailing a legitimate form of serving in TN?
I was mailed a Civil Summons to appear in Tennessee in a few months, which is about 1800 miles from where I live now. Is mailing even a legitimate form of serving, and what were to happen if I can't/don't make it to my Civil Summons?
A: Regular mail for a summons is not valid. It needs to be certified where the post office will deliver it and make you sign for it. If you fail to appear the court may grant a judgment of default, even if it is bad service. Hire local counsel to review the summons and help you make a determination and give you options.
Anthony M. Avery agrees with this answer
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