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Trusts can seem like a maze of legal jargon, but they are powerful tools for managing and protecting your wealth and assets. From minimizing taxes to safeguarding against creditors, trusts offer a range of benefits—but figuring out which one is right for you can be tricky. This post is informational only and should never replace legal advice from an attorney! Revocable Trusts: Let you keep control over your assets while you’re alive. You can change, modify, or terminate them anytime. When you pass away, the trust becomes irrevocable, distributing assets to your beneficiaries without going through probate. Irrevocable Trusts: Once assets are placed in an irrevocable trust, they cannot be changed or revoked without the beneficiaries' consent. While you lose control over these assets, you gain significant tax benefits and protection from creditors. Charitable Trusts: Charitable trusts benefit a specific charity or the public and can offer substantial tax advantages. Two common types are Charitable Remainder Trusts and Charitable Lead Trusts, which differ in how distributions are made to beneficiaries and charities. Special Needs Trusts: Created to support a person with disabilities to ensure the beneficiary receives extra care without losing eligibility for government benefits like Medicaid/SSI. Testamentary Trusts: Established through your will and take effect after you pass away. They are great for controlling asset distribution over time, especially when leaving assets to minors or those not ready to manage them independently. Spendthrift Trusts: Limits the beneficiary's access to the principal, providing controlled distributions through a trustee, ideal for those who struggle with managing money. Generation-Skipping Trusts: Designed to transfer wealth directly to your grandchildren and avoid estate taxes that could apply to your children’s generation. Legacy Trusts: Provide an extra layer of protection for specific assets, keeping them safe from creditors and securing them for future generations. You appoint a trustee to manage these assets during your lifetime. Qualified Terminable Interest Property Trusts: Common in second marriages to provide for a surviving spouse while keeping control of how assets are distributed after their death to ensure your estate eventually goes to children from a prior marriage. Work with the Experts! Understanding trusts is crucial, but nothing replaces the guidance of an experienced estate planning attorney for personalized advice to help you make the best decisions for your unique situation. Need help notarizing your estate planning documents? Reach out today! Let's make the process smooth and stress-free! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES https://www.girlfridaynotaryservices.com 253.208.2792

No worries! Girl Friday Notary Services is here for you after hours, weekends, and even holidays. For the ultimate in flexibility, convenience, and peace of mind, I'm just a call away. Because life doesn’t stick to business hours, and neither do I! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES https://www.girlfridaynotaryservices.com 253.208.2792

Let’s face it: signing important documents can be stressful.  And sometimes, that stress shows up in unexpected ways—like when I meet a “difficult signer.” As a notary public with Girl Friday Notary Services , I've encountered all sorts of unique situations, from nervous signers to those who are just plain suspicious. So, how do I handle these tricky scenarios while ensuring everything is done right? Let me take you behind the scenes! The Nervous Signer: We've all been there—nervous about signing something important. If I see a signer looking worried, I take a moment to calm their nerves. I chat with them in a friendly tone, explaining my role: verifying identities and witnessing signatures—not judging the document’s content. This helps put them at ease, knowing I’m just there to keep the process fair and accurate. The Refuser: Sometimes, I meet someone who refuses to sign, maybe because they feel pressured or unsure. When this happens, I make it clear that no one should ever feel forced to sign anything. I ask a few straightforward questions to understand their concerns and let them know they’re free to walk away. Empowering them to make their own choices usually leads to a smoother process for everyone! The Suspicious Signer: Some signers might be wary, especially if they’ve had a bad experience before. I handle this by being upfront and transparent, showing my credentials, and explaining each step. Trust is key in my line of work, and I’m here to build it one interaction at a time. The Confused Elderly Signer: Elderly signers may struggle with understanding what they're signing, especially with all the legal jargon. If I sense confusion, I’ll gently ask if they understand the document’s purpose and suggest they consult with a trusted advisor or family member. I never rush anyone—clarity and consent are vital. If I still have concerns, I document everything in my notary journal to protect both the signer and myself. My Top Tips for a Smooth Signing Experience: 1. Stay Calm and Friendly: Patience and kindness go a long way.    2. Clear Communication is Key: Make sure the signer knows what’s happening and why. 3. Trust Your Gut: If something feels off, take a moment to reassess. 4. Document Everything: Keep thorough records, especially if a situation feels complicated. Ready for a Notary Who’s Got Your Back? At Girl Friday Notary Services , I’m here to make the signing process as smooth, secure, and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re nervous, unsure, or just need a guide—I’m here to help! Need a reliable notary? Contact me today, and let's make your signing experience a breeze! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I'm not! https://www.girlfridaynotaryservices.com 253.208.2792

Attorneys, picture this: You've crafted the perfect estate plan, covering every detail to protect your client’s legacy. But what if there’s a missing piece that could take your service to the next level? Hello! I'm Kendra Marroquin, Certified Notary Trust Delivery Agent and owner of Girl Friday Notary Services , your ultimate partner in estate planning!   Here’s why teaming up with me could be a game-changer for your practice: I Can Simplify Your Client Experience: Clients love a smooth process, and nothing streamlines estate planning like partnering with Girl Friday Notary Services. Instead of overwhelming your clients with stacks of documents and endless signatures, I make everything seamless. I can even notarize documents using my Remote Online Notarization (RON) platform, saving time and reducing stress. Offering this level of convenience boosts client satisfaction and solidifies your reputation as a forward-thinking attorney. Enhance Compliance and Security: Security is non-negotiable, especially when handling sensitive legal documents. By working with a Certified Notary Trust Delivery Agent from Girl Friday Notary Services , you’re not just meeting compliance standards—you’re raising the bar.   I follow strict protocols, using encryption and secure authentication to protect your clients’ confidential information. This partnership demonstrates your commitment to safeguarding their interests and builds trust and loyalty. Expand Your Network and Referrals: Great partnerships create ripple effects!  Collaborating with Girl Friday Notary Services opens the door to a wider network of professionals who share a common goal—serving clients with excellence. This synergy can lead to valuable referrals, as satisfied clients are more likely to recommend comprehensive services. Whether it's a colleague seeking reliable notarization or a client needing estate planning, your network grows, driving organic business growth! Don’t Miss Out! Partner with Girl Friday Notary Services! The benefits are undeniable: smoother processes, enhanced security, and a steady flow of referrals. Teaming up with Girl Friday Notary Services is a smart move for any estate planning attorney looking to elevate their services and enhance client satisfaction. Ready to take your practice to the next level? Reach out today and explore how partnering with Girl Friday Notary Services can bring unparalleled success to your firm and peace of mind to your clients! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I'm not! https://www.girlfridaynotaryservices.com 253.208.2792

With Girl Friday Notary Services, I come to you at a time and location that works best for you! Whether it's your home, office, or a cozy coffee shop, I make notarization convenient and hassle-free. Can't meet in person? No worries! I also offer Remote Online Notarization (RON) for those times when an in-person appointment just isn’t feasible. Simplify your life with easy and flexible notary services! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES https://www.girlfridaynotaryservices.com 253.208.2792

Did You Know? Notaries Are Key Players in Preventing Elder Abuse! When you think of a notary, you might picture someone verifying signatures or checking IDs—but they actually do so much more! Notaries are on the front lines when it comes to spotting potential signs of mental incompetence, particularly in elderly signers. This role is crucial in protecting our loved ones from abuse or manipulation. Why Does This Matter? Imagine an elderly person being pressured into signing a document they don’t fully understand, perhaps due to dementia or Alzheimer's. That’s where notaries step in as guardians of fairness! They are trained to ensure that everyone signing a document does so willingly and with a full grasp of what they're signing. If something feels off, a notary can stop the process and prevent possible elder abuse. Challenges Notaries Face: Spotting mental incompetence isn't easy. Notaries aren't doctors, but they’re often the first to notice red flags like: 1. Subtle signs of confusion or forgetfulness. 2. Pressure from family members or caregivers who are too eager for that document to be signed. 3. Moments where an elderly person might seem clear one moment but confused the next. How Notaries Help Protect the Vulnerable: 1. Talk Directly to the Signer: They ask simple, direct questions to ensure understanding and willingness. 2. Watch for Signs of Pressure: They keep an eye out for body language and interactions that suggest coercion. 3. Document Everything: If they suspect something is wrong, they make a detailed note in their records—just in case it’s needed later in court.    4. Refuse to Notarize: If there are any doubts, notaries can and should refuse to notarize. This isn’t just a right; it’s a responsibility.    5. Seek Professional Advice: In tricky situations, they may consult legal or medical experts to decide the best course of action. By staying vigilant and following these guidelines, notaries help ensure that every legal transaction is fair and free from coercion or abuse. They play a vital role in protecting some of the most vulnerable members of our community. Spread the Word! Share this post to help raise awareness about the important role notaries play in preventing elder abuse and protecting our loved ones! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I'm not! https://www.girlfridaynotaryservices.com 253.208.2792

Did you know there's a growing trend of people trying to use legal documents to avoid taxes, skip out on debts, or even claim the government owes them billions?   These folks, often known as "Sovereign Citizens," don’t believe they need to follow state or federal laws. Lately, they’ve been asking notaries to approve some very questionable documents. These documents can look like the real deal but might be hiding some sneaky business. Some claim that government agencies owe them money, while others try to make their debts disappear. And here's the thing: they might come across as official, but they’re often anything but! What’s the Deal with Sovereign Citizens? Sovereign citizens often push notaries to do more than just witness signatures. They might ask them to copy and mail documents, create invoices, or even act like a middleman. But that's not what a notary is for! A notary's job is to verify that signatures on documents are real—not to get involved in the content of those documents. Real-Life Consequences: In one case, two notaries in New York got dragged into a lawsuit because they notarized documents that falsely claimed local governments owed billions of dollars. Yikes!   It took them seven months to clear their names, all because they didn't realize what they were dealing with. How to Spot a Problematic Document: Here are some red flags: Red Ink or Thumbprints: If you see signatures or thumbprints in red ink, something could be up. Weird Address Details: Bracketed zip codes are a classic sign. Strange Punctuation: Odd symbols or punctuation in names—think colons, semicolons, or even copyright symbols. Bold Sovereignty Statements: Phrases like “all rights reserved” or anything suggesting the person doesn't have to follow government rules. Anti-Government Language: Watch out for wording that declares the signer is exempt from laws or debts or claims that government agencies are illegitimate. Strange IDs: Some of these folks might also present ID cards that sound official but aren’t recognized by law. Examples include IDs labeled as "Moorish American," "Global Citizen," "Free State Republic," or “World Passport.” If it doesn’t look like a standard ID, it’s probably not! It's important for everyone to know these tricks and be aware of the tactics used by Sovereign Citizens. If you or someone you know ever feels pressured to notarize—or witness—a document that seems off, it's okay to say no. In fact, it’s the right thing to do! Notaries have a critical role in protecting the integrity of legal documents and being alert to these warning signs can help prevent fraud and maintain trust in important legal processes. Notarization may be boring, but I'm not! https://www.girlfridaynotaryservices.com 253.208.2792

Notaries might seem like the quiet heroes of the legal world, but they play a big role in preventing fraud and ensuring documents are valid. To do this job right, notaries must stay neutral and avoid conflicts of interest. So, what exactly does that mean? What is a Conflict of Interest in Notarizations? A conflict of interest occurs when a notary’s personal or financial interests interfere with their duty to remain impartial. This could happen if a notary: 1. Notarizes documents for close family members. Even if they believe they can stay unbiased, it can raise questions. 2. Has financial involvement in the transaction. If money is on the line, impartiality is at risk. 3. Takes on a dual role in the transaction. If a notary is also a party to the deal, it could invalidate the notarization. Why Avoiding Conflicts of Interest Matters Staying clear of conflicts isn’t just a good practice; it’s essential for keeping the notarial system trustworthy. When a conflict occurs, it can lead to: A. Document Invalidation: A notarization done under conflict can be declared invalid, leading to legal disputes and financial harm. B. Reputational Damage: Even the appearance of unethical behavior can damage a notary’s career. C. Legal Trouble: Notaries can face lawsuits, fines, or even criminal charges. D. Commission Revocation: Serious breaches can result in a suspended or revoked notary commission. Best Practices to Avoid Conflicts To keep things above board, notaries should follow these simple steps: 1. Know Your State’s Notary Laws: Understand who you can and cannot notarize for, and what constitutes a conflict. 2. Keep It Professional: Maintain a professional distance from everyone involved in the notarization. 3. Just Say No: Refuse requests that could be seen as conflicts of interest. Politely explain why you can’t help, and, if possible, suggest another notary. The Bottom Line: Ethics and Trust Avoiding conflicts is more than just legal compliance; it’s about upholding ethics and maintaining public trust. When notaries adhere to these best practices, they reinforce the integrity of every document they notarize, ensuring confidence for all parties involved. Need a notary you can trust? Feel free to reach out! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I'm not! https://www.girlfridaynotaryservices.com 253.208.2792

As a mobile notary, I bring the notary office to you! Whether you’re juggling coffee in one hand and a toddler in the other or just can’t bear to leave the comfort of your couch, I'm on the way. But what if you’re stuck in a remote cabin or maybe just a little too comfy in those slippers? No worries! I’ve got remote online notarization (RON) too. Yes, you can legally sign those documents while wearing pajama pants on a video call—your secret is safe with me. So, whether I'm driving to your door or popping up on your screen, I make sure getting things notarized is the easiest thing you do today.   GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I'm not! https://www.girlfridaynotaryservices.com 253.208.2792

The history of notarization dates back to ancient Roman times!   From the very start, notaries have played a crucial role in ensuring document integrity and trustworthiness. At Girl Friday Notary Services, I'm proud to continue this tradition, offering meticulous and professional notarizations for all your important documents. Whether it's estate planning, real estate, or any other notarization needs, I've got you covered. Trust in the legacy of notaries—trust in Girl Friday Notary Services. GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES https://girlfridaynotaryservices.com 253.208.2792 #GirlFridayNotary  #NotaryHistory   #DocumentIntegrity   #ProfessionalNotary   #MobileNotary

Ever heard of a loose leaf notarial certificate? It’s a a notary’s secret weapon to save your document from a potential legal nightmare! If you’ve got a document that’s a bit cramped, or missing the right notarial language, don’t sweat it. We’ve got a simple fix that could make all the difference. Enter the loose leaf notarial certificate to save the day! Here’s when you might need one: 1. Not Enough Room: If there’s no space for the notary’s stamp or signature, we add a loose leaf notarial certificate to keep things neat and tidy. 2. Missing Notarial Wording: If your document doesn’t have the required language, we attach a separate notarial certificate to ensure everything is legally solid. 3. Multiple Signers: If different people need different notarizations, a separate notarial certificate helps keep it all crystal clear. But, here’s something important: It’s up to you, the signer, to know which type of notarization your document requires—whether it’s an acknowledgment or a jurat (oath/affirmation). Notaries can’t make that decision for you (that would be stepping into legal territory). So, when in doubt, ask the person who created the document to tell you which type of notarial certificate is appropriate/required or consult a legal expert. Need help making sure your document is notarized correctly with all the right details? Let’s make it happen—quick, easy, and done right! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES "Notarization may be boring, but I'm not!" https://www.girlfridaynotaryservices.com 253.208.2792 #notarynearme   #notarialcertificate   #DocumentHelp

Imagine this: you're rushing to finish up at work, and your boss drops a stack of papers on your desk for a quick notarization. You skip a step—it's your boss after all, right? But what happens next could be more serious than you think! A Notary, trying to keep up with workplace norms, found herself in a sticky situation. Her boss handed her a document for notarization—nothing unusual, except the boss wasn't present, and the required oath or affirmation wasn't administered. This Notary thought she could take a shortcut. After all, it was just another routine day, right? Wrong! The boss had knowingly lied on the application. When the truth came out, the boss faced felony charges for perjury. And the Notary? She was on the hook for potential official misconduct. In the end, the Notary narrowly escaped criminal charges by cooperating with the investigation, but not without a hefty price. She faced disciplinary action, negative publicity, and legal fees. All of this because she didn’t take the time to follow proper procedure. This story, shared by Michael Closen, a respected Notary law expert, teaches us that skipping steps can have real consequences. As Notaries, we must be diligent in following the law—administering oaths or affirmations when required and never cutting corners, even if it's just for the boss. The smallest mistake can lead to big legal trouble. Next time you need something notarized, make sure you’re present for the whole process. It’s more than just a stamp—it's about making sure everything is done properly to protect you and your documents. Need a reliable notary who knows the ins and outs of notary laws, guidelines and ethics? Let’s connect! Your peace of mind is worth it. GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES "Notarization may be boring, but I'm not!" https://www.girlfridaynotaryservices.com 253.208.2792 #notarynearme  #notaryprotection   #trustworthynotary   #peaceofmind