How is service of process affected by protective orders?

• A. Protective orders have no impact on service.
• B. Service can be done any time without regard to the order.
• C. Only the plaintiff must comply.
• D. Service must comply with the protective order's terms and any special instructions issued by the court.

Answer: (D)

When a protective order is in place, service of process isn’t free to follow ordinary rules if the order imposes limits. Protective orders can specify who may receive documents, where and when service can occur, and how it must be carried out. They may require service to be done by a particular person or method, or delay service until certain conditions are met, or restrict contact with the protected party. The court may also issue additional instructions about service. Because of these constraints, the process must comply with the protective order’s terms and any special court instructions. If those terms require a specific approach, that approach governs over standard service rules to protect safety and privacy while ensuring proper notice.