FAQ

1. What types of documents require notarization?

Notarization is often required for documents that involve legal, financial, real estate, medical, or official transactions. Some of the most common types of notarized documents include:

• Real estate documents: Deeds, loan agreements, refinancing documents, and lease contracts.
• Legal contracts and agreements: Business contracts, sales agreements, service contracts, and employment agreements.
• Estate planning documents: Wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and guardianship designations.
• Affidavits: Sworn statements used for legal or official purposes.
• Financial documents: Loan agreements, promissory notes, and banking forms.
• Medical documents: Healthcare directives, HIPAA authorization forms, and medical powers of attorney.
• Motor vehicle (DMV) forms: Title transfers, lien releases, and odometer disclosures.
• Apostille-related documents: Documents that need international authentication.

If you’re unsure whether your document requires notarization, it’s best to check with the entity requesting the document or consult an attorney.

2. Can a notary public explain or provide legal advice about my document?

No, a notary public is not authorized to provide legal advice, explain the contents of a document, or guide you on whether you should sign it. A notary’s role is strictly to:

• Verify the identity of the signer(s).
• Ensure that the signer is signing the document willingly and is aware of what they are signing.
• Administer oaths or affirmations when required.
• Ensure the document is properly executed according to notarial laws.

If you have any legal questions about your document, it is best to consult an attorney before your notarization appointment.

3. Do you offer mobile notary services, and how does it work?

Yes! I provide mobile notary services, which means I come to your location for notarization. This is ideal for individuals who cannot travel, businesses with multiple signers, or urgent document signings. Here’s how it works:

1. Schedule an appointment: Contact me to arrange a time and place that is convenient for you. I travel to homes, offices, hospitals, assisted living facilities, real estate offices, and other locations.
2. Prepare your documents: Ensure the document is complete, except for the required signatures, which must be signed in my presence.
3. Identity verification: All signers must provide a valid government-issued photo ID.
4. Witness coordination (if required): If the document needs witnesses, they should be present at the appointment.
5. Document notarization: I will verify identities, ensure willingness, administer any required oaths, and notarize the document.
6. Payment and receipt: After notarization, payment is processed, and you will receive your completed document.

This service adds convenience and flexibility, especially for time-sensitive or complex notarization needs.

4. What is the difference between a notarization and an apostille?

Notarization and apostille certification serve different purposes:

• Notarization: A notary public verifies the identity of the signer and ensures the document is properly signed and executed. This step confirms the authenticity of the signature but does not authenticate the document for international use.
• Apostille: An apostille is an official certification issued by the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth that verifies the authenticity of a notarized document for use in countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. This step is required when a document needs to be legally recognized outside the United States.

If you need an apostille, I can notarize your document and guide you on how to submit it to the appropriate state agency for apostille certification.