Superior Court of Delaware, 1903

Palmer v. Palmer

Palmer v. Palmer
Superior Court of Delaware · Decided June 3, 1903 · Lore
20 Del. 402; 4 Penne. 402; 57 A. 533; 1903 Del. LEXIS 43

Counsel

Harry P. Jocelyn for libellant., Herbert L. Rice for respondent.

Palmer v. Palmer

Opinion of the Court

Lore, C. J.:

It has been brought to our attention that attorneys have been in the habit of accepting service of original process for the defendant in a suit. We think this is a bad practice. In all divorce cases there ought to be personal service, and also in others when it is practicable. And where it is not practicable in other cases, the return of “ service waived ” should be signed by the attorney for defendant. In divorce cases the Sheriff should make personal service on the defendant; if he cannot do so he may make a return of non est.

*403Mr. Jocelyn:—As representing the Sheriff, I ask leave to amend the writ now, making the return of non est.

The Court so ordered and Mr. Rice entered an appearance for the defendant.

Case-law data current through December 31, 2025. Source: CourtListener bulk data.