The Houston Texas Order for Substituted Service is a legal document that allows plaintiffs to serve legal papers or documents to defendants through alternative methods when traditional methods of service are unsuccessful. This order is issued by the court upon the plaintiff's request, usually when it is difficult to locate or personally serve the defendant. There are different types of Houston Texas Orders for Substituted Service, each serving a particular purpose. Some common types include: 1. Order for Substitute Service by Posting: This type of order allows the plaintiff to post a notice at a designated location, such as the courthouse, if the defendant's whereabouts are unknown. The notice must contain relevant information about the lawsuit, including the date, time, and location of the court proceedings. 2. Order for Substitute Service by Mail: When the defendant's address is known, but personal service is not possible, the court may grant an order for substitute service by mail. In this case, the plaintiff can send the legal documents to the defendant's address via certified mail, return receipt requested. Proof of mailing and receipt are required to demonstrate proper service. 3. Order for Substitute Service by Publication: If the defendant's address is unknown, or all attempts at personal service have failed, the court may authorize substituted service by publication. This order allows the plaintiff to publish a notice in a local newspaper, typically for a set number of weeks, informing the defendant of the lawsuit. The notice must contain specific information about the case and provide a deadline for the defendant to respond. The Houston Texas Order for Substituted Service is an essential tool for ensuring that defendants are properly notified of legal actions against them, even when traditional means of service are not feasible. It serves to protect the due process rights of all parties involved in the legal process.