If you work as a process server, you already know that you aren't meeting people on the happiest day of their lives. Unfortunately, even though you aren't responsible for their legal problems, many of those people will misdirect their anger at you. That can get dangerous. In addition, you may face additional unknown dangers every time you have to step foot on unfamiliar property -- which is often necessary for the job.

There are some things you can do to increase your safety while you work. Try these tips to protect yourself:

1. Always assume there is a danger.

This is a fact that has been highlighted in recent years by the deaths of some process servers trying to do their jobs. For example, a young process server in Texas was mauled to death by a pack of dogs when she entered the property of the person she was trying to serve. The dogs are believed to have attacked her because one of them was protecting her puppies.

Process servers need to look at each situation carefully. Assume every dog is likely to bite, no matter how friendly. Assume that every person being served has the capacity for violence, no matter how petite or refined the person may seem. The more you are aware of your vulnerabilities, the more cautious you'll be.

2. Ask your client for information.

Clients often have a wealth of information that you can't find simply by looking at a few documents. You may have served so many temporary restraining orders during a divorce that you take all of them with a healthy dose of skepticism these days. However, your client may be able to tell you that the person you're serving has a record with multiple assault convictions or is a heavy weekend drinker. That sort of information can guide your steps, allowing you to choose the timing and location of your service in a way that minimizes your personal danger.

3. Keep your car keys in your hand.

Park your car in a convenient location and keep your car keys in your hand so that you can make a quick exit from the situation. Don't keep your car key on a ring with the rest of your keys. It's much easier to make your escape if the encounter turns violent if you aren't fumbling through a whole ring of keys. If you pull into a driveway, try to back in so that you have a clear view when you go to exit.

4. Express empathy for the individuals you serve.

If you stay calm no matter what the situation, the person you serve is also more likely to stay calm. Even better -- try to empathize with the person you are serving. If you convey a sense of respect for the individual and an understanding that he or she may not be to blame for the situation, you'll likely encounter more acceptance of the idea that you're just doing a job -- not acting as the personal emissary of the individual behind their legal troubles.

5. Consider taking an associate with you.

When possible, consider taking a professional associate with you -- even if he or she simply waits by the car. The presence of a witness can often have a cooling effect on people's tempers. Someone who might be inclined to attack you when you're alone might think twice if there's a witness to the events right there.

For more information, contact a company like Legal Document Assistants.