Malta Process Server

Overview

Process Server in Malta: How Service of Process Works

Malta acceded to the Hague Service Convention on February 24, 2011, with entry into force on October 1, 2011, one of the more recent accessions in Europe. Malta's declarations touch both Article 8 and Article 10, so requests are generally directed through the formal Central Authority. As a former British colony with a hybrid legal system, Malta recognizes both English and Maltese as official languages, which can simplify translation for English-language U.S. filings.

Who serves process

Who Can Serve Legal Documents in Malta

Malta has a mixed legal system. The Central Authority is the Office of the State Advocate in Valletta, and court marshals are the officials who serve documents.

Malta objects to every Article 10 method and to consular service on non-nationals, so the Central Authority is the only valid route. Documents must be in English or Maltese, and there are no costs for service under the Convention.

Typical documents include judicial letters, writs, court orders and notices.

Treaties

Hague Service Convention and Malta

Malta is a party to the Hague Service Convention, so documents can be sent to its Central Authority, which arranges service and returns a Certificate of Service. Malta has made a declaration on Article 10, which limits service by post or by private agents, so we confirm which methods are open before choosing one.

Malta is also a party to the Hague Evidence Convention, so witness testimony and documents can be requested with a Letter of Request.