In Arizona, a person may voluntarily accept service by formally signing an acceptance or waiver of service, which must be in writing, or by entering a general appearance in the action. This rule also applies to litigants in Arizona courts without attorneys. A general appearance by a party or counsel has the same effect as a timely and valid service of a summons. Mere physical presence in court, however, without participation in the proceedings, does not constitute an appearance. Such an appearance is usually referred to as a “special appearance.” Similarly, an appearance to defend against a garnishment does not constitute an appearance in the main action in which the writ was issued. Service of process in Arizona upon an attorney who has entered a special appearance in the action to contest personal jurisdiction is not sufficient to secure service upon the client.

Lastly, a party’s participation in proceedings after unsuccessfully moving to  dismiss for insufficient process, and when the party still refuses to submit to the court’s jurisdiction, does not constitute a voluntary appearance.