how to serve a summon in new jersey

[kos1]

I am in the process of filing a small claim against my previous landlord and would like to know which would be the better choice: 1) have him served via certified mail or 2) have him served by a court officer?

Also, what would happen if he refuses to pick up the certified mail from the local post office if the attempt to deliver the mail fails or avoids being served by the court officer by not being home most of the time?

Thank you

 

[Gail_in_Georgia]

In many districts, the fees you are charged for filing in Small Claims includes having the defendant served by the court officer.

Typically the court officer will try several times to serve the defendant. If this does take place, you are notified and you have the option to try different routes (i.e., certified mail, hiring your own server, etc.).

Gail