Many organisations are familiar with the term “UK process agent”, and some even know that they need to engage one if they conduct cross border transactions. However most are not aware of the precise services that Process agents provide and the role they play in executing a contractual transaction.

Process agents are appointed in contracts where a non-resident contract party may need to be served with legal proceedings or notices. The contract governing the transaction will spell out who and where the Process Agent is to ensure that the non-resident contract party is able to receive such documents or proceedings in the country in question.

The Benefits of Using Professional Process Agent Services

A good Process Agent will be a reputable company that maintains real commercial offices and provides specialised staff to manage such enquiries. They will also be a trusted and experienced organization that can provide a full range of services to clients across the globe. This will give peace of mind to the appointing parties that their legal interests are being well protected and their contractual transactions are likely to be concluded as planned.

For example, motor carriers and freight brokers need to designate a BOC-3 Process Agent in all 50 states in order to comply with FMCSA regulations. It would be logistically absurd for them to hire individuals in each state and pay them to accept important state mail and legal notices. Therefore, they appoint what is known as a blanket agent service that has offices in all 50 states. This saves them time and money while still meeting FMCSA requirements.