What is the impact of a failed service on subsequent filings?

• A. It may delay proceedings and require re-service or dismissal if not cured; court may reopen deadlines
• B. It has no impact
• C. It ends the case immediately
• D. It guarantees default judgment

Answer: (A)

When service of process fails, the case can’t move forward until proper notice is achieved. The primary effect is a delay and the need to re-serve the defendant under the rules to ensure actual notice. If the defect isn’t cured, the court may dismiss the action for lack of service or lack of prosecution. If service is eventually completed, the court can reopen or extend deadlines that were affected by the delay, so proceedings can continue. So, the impact is a possible delay, plus re-service or dismissal if the issue isn’t corrected, rather than an automatic end to the case or a guaranteed default judgment.