Legal needs don’t stop just because you or a loved one is in the hospital. In fact, many of the most urgent notarizations such as Power of Attorney or Healthcare Directives happen at the bedside.

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At Notary Proper, I frequently visit facilities like Virtua Voorhees, Cooper University Hospital, and Jefferson Health to assist families during sensitive times.

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If you are coordinating a hospital signing, here are three things to keep in mind:

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1. Signer Awareness: To notarize a document, the signer must be alert, aware of what they are signing, and acting of their own free will. It is often best to schedule our appointment during a time of day when the patient is most alert and not under the influence of heavy sedative medication.

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2. The ID is at Home: Frequently, patients don’t have their wallets with them in the hospital. Ensure the signer’s ID is brought to the facility before I arrive.

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3. Witnesses: Many hospital documents require one or two witnesses. Due to liability, hospital staff are often restricted from acting as witnesses. Please ensure you have friends or family members available to step in if needed.

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I approach every hospital visit with patience and respect that these moments demand. We don’t rush; we make sure it’s done right.

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