Question 1

Can you notarize estate planning documents?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I can notarize signatures on many estate planning documents when the document contains the appropriate notarial wording or the signer has been instructed which notarial act is required. Common examples may include Powers of Attorney, trust documents, affidavits, and other estate planning documents.

Question 2

Can you notarize a Power of Attorney?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Powers of Attorney are among the documents I regularly assist with. The document should be completed before the appointment, with the exception of any signatures that need to be completed in the presence of the notary.

Question 3

Can you notarize trust documents?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I can notarize signatures on trust-related documents when notarization is required, including certain trusts, trust amendments, trustee documents, and Certifications of Trust. The document should be prepared before the appointment and include the appropriate notarial instructions.

Question 4

Can you come to a hospital or assisted living community for an estate planning signing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Mobile appointments are available at hospitals, assisted living communities, skilled nursing facilities, rehabilitation centers, homes, and other agreed-upon locations. The signer must be able to communicate with me directly and demonstrate their willingness and awareness regarding the notarization.

Question 5

What identification is needed for an estate planning notary appointment?

Accepted Answer

The signer needs an identification document that is acceptable under California notary law, such as a current California driver's license or identification card, or another form of identification permitted by California law. If you are unsure whether the signer has acceptable identification, please contact me before the appointment.

Question 6

Can you provide witnesses if my estate planning documents require them?

Accepted Answer

Witness coordination may be available with advance notice. Witness requirements can vary depending on the document, so you should confirm how many witnesses are required and any qualifications they must meet with your attorney or document preparer before the appointment.

Question 7

Can you print my estate planning documents for the appointment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Printing services are available when documents are provided in advance. This can be especially convenient for mobile appointments when you need the documents printed and ready for signing when I arrive.

Question 8

Can you help me complete or explain my estate planning documents?

Accepted Answer

No. As a California Notary Public, I cannot prepare estate planning documents, provide legal advice, interpret document provisions, or advise you which notarial act to choose. Questions about completing or understanding your documents should be directed to your attorney, document preparer, or receiving organization.

Question 9

Can a family member or attorney schedule the appointment for the signer?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A family member, caregiver, attorney, or document preparer may coordinate the appointment. However, the signer must personally appear before me, have acceptable identification, be able to communicate with me in English, and demonstrate that they are signing willingly and without coercion.

Estate Planning Notary Services

Commonly Notarized Estate Planning Documents

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Estate Planning Documents We May Notarize

What to Have Ready

Important: The Notary's Role

Schedule Your Estate Planning Notary Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions