What is the best way to serve a subpoena?

• A. By mail
• B. By email
• C. By fax
• D. In person

Answer: (D)

Personal service is the most reliable way to ensure the subpoena actually reaches the named person and creates a verifiable record for the court. Delivering it in person lets you confirm receipt, answer any questions, and obtain a sworn or witnessed proof of service that details who was served, when, and where. This reduces challenges about whether the recipient actually received the notice and strengthens the ability to compel appearance or production if needed. Methods like mail, email, or fax often do not count as proper service for subpoenas and may be unenforceable or require additional steps, depending on the jurisdiction. If in-person service isn’t possible, courts typically allow alternative methods under specific rules, but in-person delivery remains the standard and most effective approach.