If you’ve never called a mobile notary before, you might think the process is as simple as showing up and getting a stamp. While the act itself is quick, there is a lot of "proper" preparation that happens behind the scenes to ensure your legal documents are ironclad.

At Notary Proper, I believe that the more prepared you are, the smoother the process feels. Whether you are signing a simple affidavit or a complex legal form, here are the three most important things to know before your appointment.

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1. It’s About Verification, Not Just Signatures

A notary’s primary job isn't actually to watch you write your name—it’s to verify that you are who you say you are. This is why a current, government-issued photo ID is non-negotiable. Whether it’s a driver’s license or a passport, it must be valid and physical (I cannot accept a photo of an ID on a phone). This protects you from fraud and ensures the document’s integrity.

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2. Understanding "Capacity and Willingness"

To handle things properly, a notary has to ensure two things: that you understand what you are signing and that you are doing it of your own free will. If a signer seems pressured or doesn't understand the nature of the document, a professional notary is legally required to stop the session. This "patience and presence" is a core part of the service I provide.

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3. We Aren’t Able to Give Legal Advice

This is a common point of confusion. As a notary, I am a commissioned officer of the state, but I am not an attorney. I cannot explain the legal effects of your document or tell you which form you should use. My focus is entirely on the "proper" execution of the document you’ve already chosen. If you have questions about the language inside your document, it’s always best to check with your lawyer before our appointment.

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4. The "Who Can Be a Witness?"

Many legal documents require one or two witnesses to sign alongside you and the notary. A common misconception is that anyone can fill this role. To ensure a document is legally "proper" and "unimpeachable," witnesses should be:

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· Neutral & Disinterested: This means they shouldn't be mentioned in the document or stand to benefit from it (like a family member inheriting property in a Will).

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· Of Sound Mind & Legal Age: Just like the signer, witnesses must understand what they are witnessing.

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· Physically Present: They must be in the room to watch you sign and to have the notary verify their ID as well.

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If you know your document requires witnesses, it’s a good idea to have them lined up before I arrive to keep your session on schedule.

The Goal: Peace of Mind

I built Notary Proper on the idea that these documents represent major life transitions such as buying a home, protecting a family, or securing a legacy. By knowing what to expect ahead of time, we can remove the stress from the room and focus on getting the job done right the first time.

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