What is the function of service of documents?

• A. To set court fees
• B. To transfer the case to another court
• C. To give proper notice to the other party
• D. To decide the case on the merits

Answer: (C)

Service of documents is the process of delivering formal papers in a dispute to the other party so they are informed and can respond. The key idea is to provide proper notice, which starts the clock for responses and protects the right to a fair hearing. When documents are served correctly, the recipient knows what action is being taken, can prepare a defence or response, and the case can progress through the proper steps with due process. This often involves ensuring the documents reach the correct address and obtaining proof that service occurred. This function is distinct from setting court fees, which is an administrative matter; transferring the case to another court, which requires a separate transfer step; or deciding the case on its merits, which happens at a later stage like a hearing or judgment.