Civil Service of Process in Virginia

Service of process is not merely a procedural formality. It is the foundational step in initiating a civil action and ensuring that the court obtains jurisdiction over the parties involved. In the Commonwealth of Virginia, the rules governing service are particular, and failure to comply with them can result in costly delays, dismissals, or adverse rulings. For attorneys practicing in Virginia, particularly those specializing in litigation, torts, or civil disputes, a thorough understanding of service requirements is crucial to the successful commencement and progression of a case.

This comprehensive course will guide attorneys through the correct procedures for serving process on individuals, corporations, partnerships, trusts, the Commonwealth of Virginia and its agencies, as well as foreign entities and persons. The program will cover key distinctions in service methods depending on the type of party, the location of service, and the nature of the legal proceedings. Participants will engage with the relevant Virginia Code sections and receive practical insights on how to comply with statutory requirements in both straightforward and complex scenarios.

The course is designed to be valuable to attorneys at all stages of practice, whether newly admitted to the Virginia Bar or seasoned litigators seeking a refresher. It will provide actionable guidance and clarify common points of confusion, helping attorneys ensure that their cases begin on solid procedural ground.

Learning Objectives:

1. Review how to serve natural persons.
2. Examine how to serve domestic and foreign entities.
3. Explore how to serve the Commonwealth.

Production Date: 9/9/2025 | Closed captioning (CC) available