Serving legal documents to an individual in custody presents unique challenges, but it is a regular part of our services across Canada. With decades of experience, our team understands the specific protocols and procedures required to ensure your documents are served correctly and efficiently within provincial and federal correctional facilities.
Key Steps for Serving an Inmate
Successfully serving an inmate requires careful preparation. Following these steps can prevent significant delays and rejections at the door.
- Confirm the Location: An individual can be moved between facilities with little notice. Always call the institution first to confirm the inmate is currently housed there before sending documents for service.
- Schedule the Service: It is not advisable to simply show up. Every institution has specific, strict schedules for professional visits due to lockdowns, staff rotations, and meal times. When you call, be specific that you need to arrange a time to serve legal documents.
- Prepare the Documents Correctly (This is Critical): For security reasons, all documents must be loose-leaf paper only. Our Founder and President, Chris Ecklund, once had to serve an inmate involved in a high-profile case and was stopped by a guard who made him remove a single staple from the court documents. They are incredibly strict. Ensure your documents have no staples, no metal brads or fasteners, and no binder clips. Only plain paper will be accepted.
Pro-Tips for Serving at Major Institutions
Each correctional facility has its own unique layout and procedures. Our long-standing experience gives us the practical knowledge to navigate these complexities.
Maplehurst & Vanier Centre (Milton, ON)
For legal professionals visiting the Maplehurst Correctional Complex or the Vanier Centre for Women, traffic can be a significant factor. If you are running late, taking the tolled Highway 407 ETR is often a much faster and more reliable route than Highway 401.
Toronto South Detention Centre (Toronto, ON)
As one of Canada’s largest and busiest remand centres, scheduling is critical. We recommend initiating the process with us at least one week in advance to coordinate with the facility’s administrative staff.
Edmonton Remand Centre (Edmonton, AB)
This is another of Canada’s largest facilities. It is located on the northern edge of the city, and travel time should be factored into any service request. All visits must be scheduled well in advance.
Why Choose Our Service?
Navigating the correctional system requires a specialized skill set that goes far beyond simply showing up. Our process servers are officially registered and verified with correctional facilities across the country, a mandatory process that prevents the public from serving inmates directly. If a lawyer or clerk just “shows up,” they will likely be turned away, causing major delays. Our team’s experience, including many retired law enforcement professionals, means we understand the culture and protocols of these institutions. We have established professional relationships with staff, which allows us to handle your service smoothly and without unnecessary delays. Trust the registered experts to ensure your important legal documents are served correctly, every time.
