What might happen if a defendant is not served properly?

When a defendant is not served properly, legal proceedings may face significant complications. Proper service is a fundamental aspect of due process, ensuring that the defendant is made aware of the legal actions against them and has the opportunity to respond. If service is inadequate, the court may not have the jurisdiction to proceed with the case against the defendant.

This can lead to delays in legal proceedings as the plaintiff may need to attempt service again or take additional steps to rectify the situation. In some cases, if service is so flawed that it deprives the defendant of their right to fair legal notice, the court may dismiss the case altogether, halting any further legal action until proper service is completed. This protects the rights of the defendant and upholds the integrity of the legal process.