What You Need to Know Before Getting Any Document Notarized

There is a common misconception about what a notary actually does during an appointment. Many people sit down with a document in hand expecting explanations, clarifications, or a quick walk through of what everything means. It makes perfect sense. Legal documents can feel intimidating, especially when you are signing something important like a power of attorney, real estate papers, medical directives, or long term lease agreements.

Here is the part that surprises most people. A notary is not allowed to explain or interpret your document. My role is to verify your identity, witness your signature, and make sure you are signing willingly and with full understanding. The goal is to protect both you and the integrity of the document. That means you need to understand it before we begin.

If you ever sit down with a document and find yourself unsure about what it means or how it affects you, that is your signal to pause. Reach out to the person who prepared the document, ask questions, and get clarity. Once everything makes sense and you feel confident placing your signature on the page, then it is time to schedule your notarization.

This step protects you more than anything else. It prevents mistakes, confusion, and the kind of regret no one wants to feel when dealing with major life decisions. Judges, attorneys, financial institutions, and government agencies expect documents to be signed knowingly and willingly. A proper notarization confirms that you understood what you signed, that you were not pressured, and that your identity was verified. When the front end is done correctly, the back end moves smoothly.

When you are ready to sign, I make the process simple. I offer mobile notarization throughout Pierce, Thurston, and parts of Lewis County. I can meet you at your home, workplace, favorite coffee shop, title office, hospital, community clubhouse, or library. If you are traveling or currently living out of state or outside the country, I also provide secure Remote Online Notarization to complete your signing wherever you are.

If you are ever unsure about when notarization is needed, what type of notarization is required, or how to prepare for the appointment, feel free to reach out. I am always happy to help you understand the next step so you feel informed, prepared, and confident long before the pen touches the paper.

Serving Pierce, Thurston, and parts of Lewis Counties

Flexible scheduling, online and mobile options, and pet friendly appointments are my specialty!

✨ GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES ✨

Notarization may be boring but I’m not!