The person serving the summons shall make proof thereof to the court promptly, and in any event within the time during which the person served must respond.
Rule 4.03.Summons -- Return.
Current through June 18, 2026 · Last verified July 9, 2026
In one sentenceRule 4.03 requires whoever serves a summons to file proof of that service with the court promptly, and no later than the deadline by which the served party must respond.
Full Text of Rule 4.03
Amendment History
The source reproduced here (current through June 18, 2026) records no amendment to this rule since its original adoption — no History line appears for it in the compiled rules. For the underlying adopting order and any later amendments, see the West’s Rules & Procedures.
Plain-English Summary
Once someone delivers a summons and complaint to a defendant, Rule 4.03 requires that person to tell the court it happened. Proof of service has to reach the court promptly, and it must arrive no later than the deadline the served party has for responding.
This proof is what lets the court and the opposing party confirm that notice went out correctly and on time. Without it on file, there is no record establishing when — or whether — the defendant was properly brought into the case, which matters if the plaintiff later asks the court for a default judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has to file proof that a summons was served in Kentucky?
Rule 4.03 places that duty on the person who served the summons — that person must make proof of service to the court promptly.
By when must proof of service be filed?
The rule requires proof of service within the time during which the person served must respond, so it cannot be delayed past the defendant's own answer deadline.
Why does proof of service matter if the defendant never answers?
Proof of service is the court's record that notice was properly given, which is part of what supports any later request for judgment against a defendant who does not respond.
Source & verification. The rule text is reproduced verbatim from the
official Kentucky Rules of Civil Procedure (Ky. R. Civ. P. 4.03). Prescribed by the Supreme Court of Kentucky (Ky. Const. § 116). The plain-English summary is original and written by us. Last verified July 9, 2026. ·
Official source
Also known as: proof of service requirementreturn of service deadlinefiling proof a summons was servedwhen is return of service due