Final answer:
Personal service of a document ensures that legal papers such as a health care proxy or living will are delivered directly to the person named, guaranteeing they have knowledge of the legal proceedings and their responsibilities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Personal service of a document refers to the process where legal documents such as a health care proxy, living will, or other court papers are delivered to an individual in a manner that ensures receipt of the documents directly by the person named in the legal proceeding or action. This type of service is typically conducted by a process server, a professional responsible for delivering legal documents to a defendant or person involved in a court case. The main aim is to guarantee that the individual has actual notice of the legal action to be taken or decisions to be made, ensuring that the recipient cannot deny knowledge of the legal proceeding or the requirements laid upon them.
For instance, a health care proxy is a legal document that designates a person to make medical decisions on behalf of someone else, should they become incapable of doing so themselves. Similarly, a living will outlines an individual's preferences in regard to certain medical treatments in case they become too ill to communicate their wishes directly. Personal service of these documents might be used to ensure the selected individuals are aware of their appointment and duties.