In Bismarck, Sara Frank has built a career in a generally male-dominated field. As a process server, she navigates the legal landscape and handles difficult situations on a daily basis. While this job could be looked at in a negative light, Sara finds ways to make it more comforting and empathetic.
Process servers play a vital role in the legal system, ensuring that due process is upheld by delivering official court documents to individuals involved in legal proceedings. Their primary responsibility is to serve legal notices, including summonses, subpoenas, and court orders, notifying recipients of impending legal action or their obligation to appear in court. Beyond delivery, process servers also file confidential court papers, retrieve official documents, and use investigative tactics to locate individuals who attempt to evade service.
From security to process serving: An unexpected journey
Sara’s career path was not a straight line but a series of unexpected turns. Originally from Sherwood, North Dakota, a small town near the Canadian border, she has called Bismarck home for most of the last 25 years. Before becoming a process server, she worked in armored car security, transporting money for banks.
After having children, Sara was introduced to process serving, and what started as a part-time gig soon transformed into her full-time business. “I definitely stumbled into it,” she said. “But now this is all I do, and I love it.” The job’s unpredictability keeps her engaged, and its flexibility allows her to spend more time with her kids.
“My everyday could be anything from changing locks on a vacant building to getting chased through a trailer park,” she says with a laugh. While it may seem straightforward, the job comes with challenges, particularly in navigating difficult situations with people facing some of the worst moments of their lives.
Breaking barriers in a male-dominated field
One significant hurdle Sara has faced is the perception that process serving is a man’s job. “I get a lot of calls where they ask, ‘Is your husband around? Is Frank there?’” she shares. “And I tell them, ‘It’s just me. This is who you get.’”
Despite initial skepticism, Sara’s professionalism has earned her respect in the industry. She is part of North Dakota’s women-owned business network, which has helped her navigate the unique challenges of being a female entrepreneur. She believes more women should enter the field. “When I knock on a door, the odds of someone opening it for me might be a little higher than for a man,” she explains. “It’s a friendlier, maybe less intimidating presence.”
The challenges of entrepreneurship
Starting her own business was daunting. “It was very scary,” she admits. “You have to trust that everyone will hold up their end, and there’s a lot of paperwork and invoicing involved.”
One of her biggest lessons? Learning to delegate. Hiring a bookkeeper last year freed her from administrative tasks, allowing her to focus on the job itself. She also emphasizes the importance of finding reliable subcontractors, a process that has been both challenging and rewarding.
Looking ahead: Expansion and growth
Sara has ambitions to expand into private investigation and property inspection services in 2025. “I’m excited to get back into some of that work,” she says, noting these services align well with her expertise.
Advice for Aspiring Process Servers
For those looking to enter the field, Sara stresses preparation. “Do your research,” she advises. “Reach out to someone already in the business and see if they’re willing to share insights.
It’s frustrating when people jump in without understanding the industry.”
She emphasizes that while the job sounds simple, it is layered with legal complexities and logistical hurdles. But for those willing to put in the effort, it can be a fulfilling and flexible career.
She also hopes to encourage more women to enter the field. “You don’t have to be this big, strong guy to do this job. It can be for everybody. You just have to do your research and figure it out.”
Life beyond work
Outside of work, Sara is a devoted mother to her two children. She takes pride in spending time with them, a luxury her job allows.
She has also been a part of roller derby for nine years. “I thought it was just going to be a new workout, and here I am almost a decade later,” she laughs. Recently, she helped start a travel team spanning North and South Dakota, balancing competitive sports with her business and family life.
A role model for women in business
Sara Frank is not just a successful process server – she is a testament to the resilience and tenacity of women breaking barriers in male-dominated industries. Her journey serves as an inspiration for other women looking to forge their own path, proving that anything is possible.