Process servers quote before work starts when a law firm is comparing vendors, when the job involves many defendants or distant addresses, or when the client needs a rush turnaround. Clients typically compare the per-service price, the speed, how many attempts are included, and whether you will bill extra for travel or difficult targets.
When to use estimates: Use estimates to provide project quotes and get client approval before starting work. Once approved, convert your estimate to an invoice with one click to collect payment.
Create an invoice for payment collection
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Invoice_1001_Client_2026-10-14.pdf
A quote for one summons is very different from a quote for six subpoenas. Listing the count prevents scope creep after you have started.
Speed is the biggest driver of price. Spell out the deadline you are working to and what happens if it changes.
This sets expectations for evasive or hard-to-find recipients and explains later charges.
Bad or outdated addresses are the most common reason for extra cost. State whether skip tracing is included or billed separately.
Define the zone covered by the base fee and the per-mile rate beyond it so out-of-area jobs do not surprise the client.
State that you will provide a signed or notarized affidavit of service, and how quickly, since clients have court deadlines.
Witness fees, court fees, and records charges should be identified as client responsibility and payable in advance where needed.
| Service | Priced | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Routine service of process (standard turnaround, up to 3 attempts) | per service | $40-90 |
| Rush service (24-48 hours) | per service | $75-150 |
| Same-day or emergency service | per service | $125-250 |
| Additional attempts beyond the included number | per attempt | $15-40 |
| Mileage outside the standard service area | per mile | $0.65-1.25 |
| Skip tracing / locating a person | per search | $30-125 |
| Stakeout or surveillance for evasive defendants | per hour | $50-100 |
| Document filing, court runs, or notarized affidavit of service | per item | $10-50 |
Typical US ranges. Rates vary by region, experience, and job size.
Publish routine, rush, and same-day rates in a simple table. Law firms like to see clear options and can choose the speed that fits their deadline.
Gated communities, workplaces with security, and people known to avoid service take more time. Quote a higher rate or require a stakeout budget when the client warns you about this.
A discount for law firms that send many jobs a month can win steady work. Set a minimum monthly volume and keep rush and out-of-area work at full price.
For skip tracing or stakeouts, quote an hourly rate with a cap that the client must approve before you go beyond. This protects both of you.
A flat fee covering a set number of attempts is the easiest for clients to compare. Then list the per-attempt charge for extras. For jobs likely to be difficult, quoting by the attempt or the hour may protect you better.
Fifteen to thirty days is typical. Addresses, fuel costs, and your schedule can change, and a short validity period lets you update the price if the client waits.
Yes, but say so in the quote. State that the price assumes the address provided is correct, and that skip tracing or additional travel will be billed if the person cannot be found there.
Quote the base fee for your own area and give a per-mile rate or a flat surcharge for distant counties. For remote locations, many servers subcontract to a local colleague and pass on that cost with a modest markup.
Use the Process Server invoice template to bill the client, or convert this estimate once it's approved.
Process Server invoice template