You’ve decided to start a process server or private investigation business. Sounds easy, right?
Before you fall into the trap of thinking that there isn’t much to worry about, think again. Just like with any other business, maybe even more so, there are legal details to take care of.
You’ll need to make sure you have insurance, too.
If this comes as a surprise, you’ve come to the right place. We’re here to guide you in setting up your business the right way. Here are seven tips and tricks you need to know.
1. Stay on Your Toes
There’s a lot of paperwork for anyone running a process server or private investigator business, and it must be done right. Slacking off could really get you into trouble, including getting hit with some pretty hefty fines.
So, don’t get into the process serving business if you aren’t always willing and able to stay alert. One mistake could cost you, or someone else, a lot.
Make sure you understand all the legal aspects of your job before you start your business. This will help you set the stage for success and start a good habit of doing everything thoroughly.
The better you adhere to all required policies and procedures, the more successful you’ll be.
2. Understand Your Insurance
You’ll need to properly insure your business. This will help protect you if something goes wrong on the job – if you’re properly insured.
Pay close attention to your insurance policy before signing. There are differences between policies and insurance types, so make sure you get the one that’s right for your business.
You might come across terms like Errors and Omissions Insurance. You might wonder if Professional Liability Insurance is a better option.
That depends on who you’re getting it from.
Your insurance options aren’t cut and dry. Make sure you read your entire policy and understand it correctly before making any final decisions.
3. Find Out if You Need a License
Many states require licensing for you to run your business. You’ll run into legal issues if you don’t meet this requirement.
Obtaining your license will require specific things, which differ from state to state. If your state requires licensing, find out what the requirements are.
You might be required to have insurance in place before securing your license, and you may be required to complete and pass an exam to be licensed.
Whatever the requirements are, find out first so you can prepare for them. Otherwise, your path to opening your business doors will experience some roadblocks.
4. Always Get Insurance
Insurance for your process server or private investigation business isn’t always required. In fact, in most states, it’s not.
That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be insured, though.
Sure, ensuring your business will cost you some cash. However, that cash is money well spent.
If your business isn’t insured, you’ll be forced to foot the bill if something goes wrong. In the case of a legal issue, you’ll be extremely glad that you were paying for insurance, so just decide to do it.
Trust us. You’ll thank yourself if anything ever goes wrong.
5. Understand Your Role
This might go without saying, but we’re going to say it anyway: process servers aren’t the police.
While you play a part in legal proceedings, that doesn’t give you the power to force anybody. If someone won’t take the papers you’re trying to serve, it’s not your job to make them.
Gain a thorough understanding of your role as a process server to avoid unnecessary risks and consequences. Know when and how you are allowed to appropriately retrieve and deliver documents.
This isn’t an undercover, adventurous sort of job. If you’re looking for more action, you should reconsider building a process server business.
6. Learn Your State’s Process Serving Rules
The rules for process serving aren’t universal. So, be sure to learn what your role and rights are in the state you live in.
Consider where you’ll be operating your business. If you’re running a business in Utah it doesn’t make much sense to study up on the laws and regulations for Illinois.
This means you shouldn’t run your business based on rules from out of state. It is a good idea to learn other states’ rules, though. You might end up doing business with people and companies who are following their own state’s rules, so you’ll need to understand what’s going on.
7. Local Rules May Apply
As you get to know the rules, don’t forget to check at a local level too. In California, rules differ from county to county when it comes to bonds and insurance.
Doing a thorough job is crucial to your business’ success. Become familiar with all levels of rules or you might experience hurt later. Local, state, and national rules may apply to where you plan to run your business.
Use These Process Server or Private Investigator Tips
Starting and running a process server or private investigator business may not be the simplest thing in the world. But really, getting started isn’t very difficult. You just need to keep an eye on all legal and insurance requirements.
keep these tips in mind as you create your business, and don’t forget them afterward! The closer you follow all applicable rules, the better off you and your clients will be.
Ready to protect your business? Contact us today for your customized insurance package and experience the confidence that comes from doing your job with total peace of mind and protection. Click here to apply now.
