What is a "certificate of service"?

• A. A document certifying that service was accomplished, with details of method and recipient.
• B. A receipt for payment of filing fees.
• C. A notice to dismiss the case.
• D. A complaint that initiated the action.

Answer: (A)

A certificate of service is the document that proves service of legal papers happened. It records who was served, the date, the method used (for example, personal delivery or service by mail), and who did the service, often with a signature or notarization. This proof is what lets the court and the other party know that due process has been satisfied and the case can proceed. It’s not about paying filing fees, dismissing the case, or the initial complaint itself—the certificate simply confirms that the required notice was actually delivered and to whom.