When most people think of a notary public, they picture someone stamping documents for real estate transactions, contracts, or affidavits. While those are common duties, the reality is that notaries offer a far wider range of services than many people realize. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we often encounter clients who are surprised by the scope of our work — and how these services can simplify both personal and professional processes.
In this guide, we’ll explore the notary public services you didn’t know you needed, explain why they’re important, and show you how our mobile notary and digital Live Scan fingerprinting solutions can save you time and stress.
Understanding the Role of a Notary Public
A notary public is an impartial, state-commissioned official who helps prevent fraud by verifying identities, witnessing signatures, and ensuring documents are signed willingly and knowingly. While notarizing contracts and deeds is a well-known role, notaries also assist with highly specialized and less-publicized tasks that can be crucial in certain circumstances.
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we combine traditional notarization services with modern mobile solutions so clients can access professional help wherever and whenever they need it.
Uncommon Notary Public Services You Might Need
Holographic Will Verification
A holographic will is a handwritten will that may not have been witnessed at the time of writing. While not every state recognizes them, California does under certain conditions. A notary can help verify the authenticity of such a document, ensuring it meets legal requirements for probate.
Notarizing International Business Documents
If you’re doing business abroad, you may need certain documents notarized for use in other countries — such as contracts, company formation documents, or intellectual property agreements. We can also guide you on whether you need apostille certification for international recognition.
(Related: Our Apostille and Authentication Services)
Consent Forms for Minors Traveling Abroad
Parents often overlook that children traveling internationally with only one parent — or without either — may need notarized consent forms. Airlines, border control agents, and foreign authorities may refuse entry without proper documentation. We notarize travel consent letters to ensure your trip goes smoothly.
Notarization for Immigration Forms
While notaries are not allowed to provide legal advice on immigration unless they’re also licensed attorneys, we can notarize documents such as affidavits of support, translations, and identity verifications required for immigration applications.
(Related: Live Scan Fingerprinting for Immigration)
Vehicle Title Transfers
When selling or gifting a vehicle, notarizing the title can prevent disputes later. Some states require notarization to officially transfer ownership, especially for out-of-state transactions.
How Mobile Notary Services Make a Difference
Flexible Scheduling
With Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, you don’t have to rearrange your day to visit a notary. We come to you — whether it’s your home, office, hospital, or other agreed location. This is especially useful for urgent document signings, such as real estate closings or last-minute travel consents.
Serving Clients in Hospitals, Care Homes, and Rehabilitation Centers
Many people don’t realize they can request notarization services in medical settings. Whether it’s a power of attorney, living will, or medical consent form, we provide compassionate, in-person support for individuals unable to travel.
(Related: Mobile Notary Services in Los Angeles)
Live Scan Fingerprinting – A Service You May Not Know You Need
In addition to notarization, Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan provides digital Live Scan fingerprinting for background checks, licensing, and employment. This service is increasingly requested by employers, state agencies, and even private organizations.
Common Situations Requiring Live Scan Fingerprinting:
- Professional Licensing – Teachers, nurses, contractors, and security personnel often require fingerprint clearance.
- Volunteering – Many youth organizations and non-profits require background checks for volunteers.
- Immigration Processes – Some visa and residency applications require fingerprint submissions.
- Adoptions – Domestic and international adoptions typically require fingerprint-based background checks.
By combining notary and Live Scan services, we offer clients a one-stop solution for legal documentation and identity verification.
(Related: How Live Scan Works)
Estate and Elder Law Document Notarization
Durable Power of Attorney
A durable power of attorney (DPOA) allows someone to act on your behalf in financial or legal matters. Notarizing this document ensures it is legally recognized and prevents future disputes.
Advance Healthcare Directives
An advance healthcare directive outlines your medical wishes if you’re unable to communicate them. Hospitals often require notarized directives before acting on them, and our mobile service makes this process easier for families during stressful times.
Specialized Notary Services for Businesses
Corporate Resolutions
When a corporation takes certain actions — such as appointing officers, acquiring property, or opening bank accounts — notarizing a corporate resolution adds legitimacy and protects the company from disputes.
Commercial Lease Agreements
Landlords and tenants often choose to have commercial lease agreements notarized to prevent future disagreements and ensure terms are clear to both parties.
Apostille & Authentication Services
Some documents used internationally require apostille certification to be valid overseas. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we assist in preparing and submitting documents for authentication, saving you time and ensuring compliance with international requirements.
(Related: Apostille and Authentication Services)
Why Choose Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan
- We Come to You – Whether at home, office, or a public place, we travel to your location.
- Comprehensive Services – From standard notarizations to Live Scan fingerprinting and apostille requests.
- Experienced Professionals – Our team understands the nuances of both common and uncommon notarization needs.
- Same-Day Appointments – For urgent cases, we often provide same-day service.
Final Thoughts
Many people think of notary public services in narrow terms, but there’s a whole world of lesser-known, yet essential, tasks that benefit from notarization. Whether it’s international document authentication, Live Scan fingerprinting, or estate planning documents, Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan makes the process simple, accessible, and secure.
If you need mobile notary services in Los Angeles or nearby areas, or you’re unsure whether your document requires notarization, reach out today — you might be surprised at how we can help.
FAQs
1. Can a mobile notary come to my workplace for document signing?
Yes. Our mobile notaries in Los Angeles routinely visit workplaces across the city — from Downtown LA to Beverly Hills — to notarize contracts, employment documents, and legal agreements. This saves busy professionals time while ensuring every signature meets California’s notarial standards.
Learn more about our mobile notary services in Los Angeles
2. Do all countries require apostille certification for documents?
No. Only countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention accept apostille-certified documents. Other nations, such as China or the UAE, require embassy or consulate authentication instead. Our Los Angeles office can guide you through both apostille and consular legalization to ensure your documents are valid overseas.
See our apostille services for international documents.
3. Is Live Scan fingerprinting the same as traditional ink fingerprinting?
No. Live Scan fingerprinting is a modern, digital process that transmits your fingerprints electronically to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) or FBI. It’s faster, cleaner, and more accurate than traditional ink fingerprinting. We provide Live Scan services in Los Angeles for employment, licensing, immigration, and background checks.
Book your appointment for Live Scan fingerprinting in Los Angeles.
4. Can I request notary services for someone in a hospital?
Yes. Our mobile notaries frequently visit hospitals, senior living centers, and rehab facilities throughout Los Angeles to notarize urgent documents such as powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and estate forms. We ensure every signing is handled with care, professionalism, and compliance.
Learn more about our hospital and mobile notary services.
5. How do I know if my document needs notarization?
If your document impacts legal rights, includes a sworn statement, or is being filed with a court or government agency, it likely requires notarization. Our licensed California notaries can review your document and confirm whether a notarization or apostille is needed.
Contact Anshin Mobile Notary & Live Scan in Los Angeles for guidance before you sign.
