In the event of non-service due to unpaid service fees, what must the sheriff do?

The correct answer highlights the sheriff's responsibility to make a due return of the civil process along with a noted reason for non-service. This is an important protocol in the handling of civil process matters. When service cannot be completed due to unpaid service fees, the sheriff must document this situation as part of their official duties.

Making a due return provides an account of the actions taken and the circumstances surrounding the non-service, ensuring transparency and maintaining a clear record for all parties involved. This is particularly crucial in legal contexts where the reasons for non-service may need to be reviewed or addressed in the future. Proper documentation also helps to hold parties accountable and can facilitate the resolution of any issues surrounding the unpaid fees.

The other choices either fail to fulfill this responsibility or do not align with proper civil process procedures. Ignoring the fee issue does not address the legal obligations of the sheriff. Simply returning the paperwork without action does not provide the necessary record of the attempted service and the reason for its failure. Similarly, refunding the service fee is not standard practice in this context and does not consider the legal implications of service of process.