Personal delivery to the defendant is the primary method of service. Rule 4 describes how to serve individuals (handing them the papers or leaving with a person of suitable age at their dwelling), infants/minors and incompetent persons (usually by serving a legal guardian or parent in addition to the individual)?, and organizations like corporations or partnerships (by delivering to an officer or a registered agent for service)?.
- For example, serving a corporation can be accomplished by delivering process to the company’s registered agent or an officer of the corporation?.
- If the United States is a defendant, service is achieved by delivering the summons and complaint to the U.S. Attorney General (along with the local U.S. Attorney)?.
- Service on the State of Alaska or other public entities would similarly involve delivering to specified officials (e.g. the Attorney General for the state).