Written by Amy Elliott and Brad Lyons, this report delves into the economic realities of the process serving industry in Australia, uncovering the systemic exploitation of process servers.
Introduction
The Silent Crisis in Process Serving
Process serving is a cornerstone of the legal system, yet many companies exploit process servers by imposing restrictive contracts and paying substandard wages that often fall below the minimum wage.
The Hidden Costs of Low Pay
Some process servers earn as little as $30 per job—far below sustainable levels. They are expected to cover expenses like fuel, paperwork, and administrative work, making it financially impossible to sustain a career in the industry.
Industry Exploitation: How Firms Maximize Profits at Server Expense
Many firms charge clients upwards of $300 per serve while only paying servers $30–$40. These firms often prohibit servers from taking on additional work, further exacerbating financial hardship.
Why Fair Compensation Matters
Raising process server fees to $130 per job ensures a higher quality of service, improves reliability, and reduces fraudulent practices. Proper compensation supports legal professionals and protects the integrity of the legal system.
Call to Action
Process servers must demand fair pay. Legal professionals should prioritize working with ethically-run firms that pay fair rates. The future of process serving depends on equitable compensation and professional treatment.