What can extend the time for service beyond the 120 days?

The ability to extend the time for service beyond the standard 120 days is primarily rooted in the concept of "good cause." When a party demonstrates a valid reason for the delay in serving legal documents, the court may grant additional time based on that justification. This mechanism is crucial in ensuring fairness, as it acknowledges that circumstances can arise that make timely service challenging, such as difficulties in locating the other party or unforeseen events that impede the serving process.

A demonstrated good cause ensures that the process remains just and does not penalize one party for situations beyond their control. Courts often consider factors like the complexity of the case, the efforts made to serve, and any obstacles encountered when evaluating requests for an extension. This flexibility facilitates the progression of legal proceedings while upholding the rights of all parties involved.