Service of process is the formal delivery of court papers that gives the other party legal notice of the case and what is being requested. In Arizona family law, the Petition for Dissolution and the Summons must be properly served on the respondent. All deadlines in the case, the response deadline, the 60-day waiting period, and others run from the date of service.

Arizona allows service by a process server, by the county sheriff, by certified mail with return receipt in limited circumstances, or by acceptance of service where the respondent signs a formal acknowledgment. Service by publication is available as a last resort when the respondent cannot be located after diligent effort.

Proof of service must be filed with the court. The date and method of service must be accurately documented. A defective service can create procedural problems that delay the entire case.