Service of Prices (SOP)
Service of Process (SOP): Intake → Triage → Response
SOP is time-sensitive. This playbook shows what counts as SOP, how to route it, estimate deadlines, escalate correctly, and document chain-of-custody—so you never miss a response window.
What SOP is
- Delivery of legal documents (e.g., Summons & Complaint, Subpoena, writ/garnishment).
- Usually via your Registered Agent, a process server, sheriff, or certified mail (jurisdiction-dependent).
- Triggers a response clock—often counted in days.
What SOP isn’t (but treat seriously)
- Attorney demand letters, agency inquiries, or tax reminders (not always “service,” but still important).
- Random customer complaints. (Route to support; don’t ignore.)
Immediate Moves (SLA)
- Within 2h: Acknowledge & create ticket.
- Same day: Assign owner; estimate deadline.
- ≥48h pre-deadline: Target filing/response.
⚡ What Fires When
| Type | Common Trigger | First Action | Next Step | Outcome SLA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summons & Complaint | RA scan / process server / sheriff | Log; deadline estimate; notify insurer (if covered) | Retain/notify counsel; prepare answer/response | File ≥48h before answer deadline |
| Subpoena | Personal service / RA / mail (varies) | Check jurisdiction, date, scope | Confer/seek extension; object or move to quash if needed | Calendar compliance date + buffer |
| Writ / Garnishment | Court order served on payroll/bank | Freeze/act per order; notify payroll/finance | Coordinate counsel; respond/file as directed | Per order; prioritize immediately |
| Agency / Tax Notice | Mail/portal alert | Identify issue; ticket + owner | Remediate; file/appeal if needed | Resolve ≤5 business days |
Jurisdictions differ—verify local rules. This is operational guidance, not legal advice.
1) Intake
- Channels: RA portal/scan, in-person service, certified mail, court e-service.
- Immediately route to legal@yourdomain & ops@yourdomain.
- Log in SOP Register with timestamp & attachments.
2) Triage
- Identify type (complaint, subpoena, writ).
- Estimate deadline (tools below); assess coverage/insurer notice.
- Assign matter owner; pick/notify counsel.
3) Response
- Draft answer/objection/production plan.
- Calendar milestones; collect records (litigation hold if needed).
- File/respond; archive proof (receipts, tracking, e-file confirmation).
⏱️ Deadline Estimator + Calendar
Estimate a due date. Choose calendar or business-day counting; optionally add extra mailing days. Always verify with counsel.
🎯 Subpoena Quick Decision
Check what applies; we’ll draft next-step guidance to copy.
✉️ Email Templates (Copy/Paste)
Acknowledgment to Opposing Counsel
Notice to Insurer (Potential Coverage)
Outside Counsel Engagement Kickoff
🗂️ SOP Register (Lightweight)
Track SOP items and export to CSV. For production, mirror this in your ticketing/DMS.
| Received At | Channel | Jurisdiction | Case No. | Party | Type | Deadline | Owner | Status | Notes |
|---|
Roles & Routing
- RA Portal Admin: receives scans; maintains contacts.
- Legal Lead: triage, deadlines, counsel coordination.
- Ops: ticketing, filings, payments, courier.
- Records/IT: litigation holds, data pulls.
- Finance/Payroll: writs & garnishments.
Escalation Ladder
- 2h: Acknowledge & log.
- Same day: Assign owner; notify insurer (if applicable).
- ≤7 days to deadline: Exec sponsor loop-in.
- Missed SLA risk: Emergency huddle + outside counsel.
FAQ
Who can accept SOP?
Typically your Registered Agent or a person authorized/appropriate under local rules. To avoid disputes, rely on your RA; train reception not to refuse servers improperly.
What if SOP seems defective?
Log & preserve anyway; raise defects through counsel rather than ignoring. Many defects can be cured quickly.
Should we ever ignore SOP?
No. Ignoring can lead to default judgments or sanctions. Always acknowledge and route.
Is this legal advice?
No—operational guidance only. Confirm deadlines and strategy with counsel for your jurisdiction and facts.