What is the required action after mailing a copy of the complaint and summons to the defendant?

After mailing a copy of the complaint and summons to the defendant, the appropriate action is for the officer to attempt to call the defendant. This action serves as an effort to ensure that the defendant is aware of the legal proceedings initiated against them. Communication through a phone call can help clarify any misunderstandings about the complaint and provide the defendant with information on how they can respond to it.

Effective communication in this context is crucial because it can facilitate a smoother resolution of the case and encourage the defendant to respond appropriately, rather than having to rely solely on postal communication. The call can also serve as a way to confirm that the defendant has received the documents and understands the implications of the service.

Mailing the documents does not guarantee that the defendant will respond immediately or seek further clarification on their own. Therefore, taking the initiative to contact the defendant is a proactive step that aligns with best practices in civil procedure.