This Practice Note considers the different methods of service available when serving a claim form in England and Wales. The methods considered are set out in CPR 6 and CPR 55.

Note that:

1. •

   where there is a contractually agreed method of service between the parties, the provisions in CPR 6.11 will apply. For guidance, see Practice Note: Service of the claim form by a contractually agreed method (CPR 6.11)

2. •

   the Companies Act 2006 also contains rules for service which may be applied as alternatives to the service rules in the CPR. For information, see Practice Note: Serving documents under the Companies Act 2006

3. •

   when encountering difficulties with service, it may be possible to effect service by alternative methods (CPR 6.3(1)(e)). The rules for this are set out in CPR 6.15. For guidance, see Practice Notes: Alternative service—principles, Alternative service—making an application and Alternative service—illustrative decisions

4. •

   HMRC have requested that service of new proceedings on it should be by email (rather than by post) where possible, see