What is the delivery method used for delivering documents to a hard-to-find defendant?

The correct choice, alternative services, is appropriate for delivering documents to a hard-to-find defendant because it encompasses various methods beyond conventional means, particularly when traditional methods of service, like personal service, have failed.

Alternative services allow a party to employ creative approaches to ensure that a defendant receives notice, which is a fundamental requirement for ensuring due process rights. These methods may include sending documents via email, posting notice on the defendant's property, or publishing the notification in a newspaper if the defendant's whereabouts are unknown. These strategies recognize the importance of ensuring that defendants are aware of the legal actions against them, even when they are difficult to locate.

Other methods, such as personal service, would necessitate the physical presence of the defendant, which can be problematic if the individual cannot be found. Substituted service requires leaving documents with someone of suitable age and discretion at the defendant's residence or place of business, and while it can sometimes work, it is not as flexible as alternative services. Constructive notice refers to situations where a party may not have direct knowledge of a legal action, but notice is deemed to have been provided through established legal procedures; it does not encompass proactive measures like those found in alternative services. Thus, alternative services are tailored specifically for