When a process server is needed in Pinewood Estates, Texas, the papers go through Hardin County, because this unincorporated community, a Census-designated place, has no city government. Citations with petitions, subpoenas and notices to vacate can be delivered on Standard Service, with an attempt within 5 business days, on Rush Service within 48 hours, or on 24-Hour Service within 24 hours. Proof that the papers were handed over comes as a signed Return of Service in your email. Pinewood Estates had 1,641 residents in 2020 spread across about 13.2 square miles.
What a Process Server Costs in Pinewood Estates: Three Flat Tiers
Under the flat rates on the pricing page, Standard Service is billed at $69 and Rush Service at $119; 24-Hour Service is billed at $169. Start on the order form. A state-court citation or summons in Texas brings a $100 fee on top. Hardin County constables and the sheriff serve too, at fees set yearly by the commissioners court (Local Government Code 118.131), so a private server is only one of the options.
Who May Serve Papers in Pinewood Estates: Certified Servers, Constables and Court Orders
Under Rule 103, service may be made by a sheriff or constable, by an adult 18 or older authorized by law or court order, or by a person certified by the Judicial Branch Certification Commission. Parties and interested persons are excluded. The Rule 103 guide covers certification.
Where Pinewood Estates Cases Are Filed: Justice Court, County Court and District Court
Kountze is the county seat. The Hardin County Courthouse, 300 West Monroe Street, Kountze, TX 77625, is about 13.7 miles from Pinewood Estates. Hardin County justice courts hear evictions and civil claims up to $20,000; the county court shares jurisdiction above $200. Because the precinct follows the disputed address, call the Hardin County justice court clerk to confirm it.
Eviction Notices in Pinewood Estates: Notice to Vacate and the Justice Court Case
Texas requires at least three days' written notice to vacate before an eviction suit, unless the written lease sets a different period. Delivery may be by mail, by hand to a tenant 16 or older, inside the premises in a conspicuous place, or electronically by written agreement. The landlord then files a sworn petition, and the Hardin County Sheriff's Office or a constable must serve the citation.
Divorce Papers, Citations and Substituted Service for Pinewood Estates Defendants
A spouse is served in person, or by certified mail with return receipt. If that fails, Rule 106(b) lets the court approve another method based on a sworn statement of where the spouse can be found and the facts of each attempt. A business sued in Hardin County is served on its registered agent. The court will not grant a default until the return has rested with the clerk for ten days.
Subpoena Service, Witness Fees and Records Near Pinewood Estates
Altus Lumberton Hospital, 220 Blanco St in Lumberton, is about 8.6 miles away. In Beaumont, CHRISTUS Southeast Texas-St Elizabeth at 2830 Calder Avenue is about 12.6 miles, and Baptist Beaumont Hospital about 13.8 miles. The Hardin County Sheriff's Office keeps law enforcement records for Pinewood Estates. Pay $10 per day to a summoned witness when serving; a custodian gets $1.
ZIP Codes and Neighboring Communities Around Pinewood Estates
Pinewood Estates uses ZIP 77659. Bevil Oaks, Sour Lake and Lumberton are nearby; see the Hardin County page.
Pinewood Estates Process Server FAQ
Can papers be taped to a door?
Not a citation, unless Rule 106(b) authorization is granted by the court.
How soon after service can a default judgment be taken?
The proof of service has to be on file with the Hardin County clerk ten days first.
Can I serve the papers myself?
No. Parties cannot serve their own case in Texas.