Who is responsible for serving the summons and complaint according to the rules?

The correct answer reflects the principle that service of process must be carried out by someone who is impartial and disinterested in the outcome of the case. Specifically, any person over the age of 18 who is not a party to the action is eligible to serve the summons and complaint. This ensures that the party being served receives proper notification of the lawsuit in a manner that respects fair process.

The reasoning for requiring a neutral third party relates to the need for an impartial execution of legal duties. By prohibiting parties to the litigation from serving documents, the rules help maintain the integrity of the legal process and avoid conflicts of interest or intimidation that could arise from one party directly involving themselves in the service.

In contrast, if the defendant, the plaintiff, or only a court-appointed official were responsible for serving the summons and complaint, it could lead to potential biases or complications. The defendant serving themselves would create a significant conflict, while relying solely on a court-appointed official could unduly limit the accessibility of legal representation and processes for individuals across various circumstances. Thus, option C is the most appropriate choice to ensure proper and fair service of legal documents in accordance with established rules.