Service by electronic means is allowed under what condition?

• A. Never
• B. Only if permitted by practice directions
• C. Always
• D. Only for small claims

Answer: (B)

Electronic service is allowed only if practice directions permit it. The rules don’t grant automatic permission to serve by electronic means; you must consult the relevant practice directions (and any court orders) to see whether electronic service is allowed for the particular document and case. If the directions do authorize it, you must follow their specific requirements (such as how to provide notice, the exact method, and when service is deemed complete). If they don’t authorize electronic service, you must use the traditional methods.

That’s why the best answer is that electronic service is allowed only if permitted by practice directions. It isn’t always permissible, and it isn’t restricted to small claims, nor is it universally prohibited in all cases.