Being a Notary Public in California requires continuous education and flexibility. Legal documents can be imposing and hard to understand. Complex foreign, domestic, and in-state/out of state documents may be confusing upon first look.
As an experienced Notary, I take this into account and review the document requirements. I know the exact standards for proper notarization. I keep in mind that a lawyer may review the document closely to see if it is properly filled out and that some documents are used in hearings or trials.
Foreign documents may be challenging due to cultural, procedural and language reasons. I’m experienced in notarizing travel documents for minors, including those that involve travel of minors to foreign destinations. The trick is to discern what they want and how they want the parties involved to document it.
Hospital settings can be challenging for all parties involved. For example, when filling out a Power of Attorney or Advanced Health Care Directive, the patient, (even though conscious and lucid) may not want cooperate with caring family members. There can be a wait period because the patient is called away for tests or other emergencies.
Lastly, the proofing process is critical – ensuring every detail is exact, correct and in the proper place. This is especially true for documents involving real estate. It can be easy to miss something or misspell a name – mistakes that could delay closing or transfer of property. I use a triple-check method to ensure the document is properly notarized with the correct California required notarial wording on the certificate. I check that signatures match the exact printed names as those on the document and the identification (important in real estate transactions). I do everything I can to secure my client’s peace of mind regarding their documents.
Experience does count, especially when it comes to choosing a Notary. I pledge to perform your service with courtesy, kindness and precision.
Truly yours,
Mark Edwin Hinsey, California Notary Public