Key Facts
- A Power of Attorney (POA) allows an agent to make decisions on behalf of the principal, requiring notarization for authenticity.
- Mobile notary services provide convenience for clients unable to travel, ensuring POAs are signed in sensitive situations.
- Notarization protects against fraud and confirms the principal's understanding and voluntary consent when signing a POA.
- Mobile notaries facilitate the signing process in hospitals, nursing homes, and private residences, ensuring legal compliance.
- Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan offers comprehensive services, including Live Scan fingerprinting and apostille services, for various documentation needs.
A Power of Attorney (POA) is one of the most important legal documents people sign. It grants authority to another person (the “agent” or “attorney-in-fact”) to make financial, legal, or healthcare decisions on behalf of the “principal.” Because of the power it confers, courts and institutions require that the document be notarized to ensure authenticity and prevent fraud.
Notarization confirms that the person granting power understands the significance of what they are signing, is doing so voluntarily, and that their identity has been properly verified. Without notarization, many institutions—including banks, healthcare facilities, and government offices—will not recognize a POA.
Why Mobile Notary Services Make a Difference
Convenience for Clients in Sensitive Situations
In many cases, a POA needs to be signed when the principal is elderly, ill, hospitalized, or otherwise unable to travel. This is where mobile notary services provided by companies like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan become invaluable. Instead of requiring the principal to travel to an office, the notary travels to their location—whether it’s a hospital room, nursing facility, private home, or office.
Reducing Stress During Critical Times
POAs are often created during stressful times, such as before a surgery, after a diagnosis, or when a loved one is preparing for long-term care. Having a mobile notary available reduces the burden and ensures legal compliance without adding extra complications.
Powers of Attorney mistakes families should avoid
Types of Powers of Attorney That Require Notarization
General Power of Attorney
A General POA gives broad authority to the agent to manage financial and legal matters. This must be notarized to confirm the identity of the principal and prevent unauthorized use.
Durable Power of Attorney
A Durable POA remains valid even if the principal becomes incapacitated. Because of its serious nature, notarization is a legal safeguard that ensures the principal’s decision was made knowingly.
Medical Power of Attorney
Also known as a Healthcare POA, this document allows an agent to make medical decisions on behalf of the principal. Hospitals and healthcare providers almost always require notarization before accepting the document.
Limited or Special Power of Attorney
This grants specific powers for a limited time or task—such as signing documents for a real estate closing. In California, real estate transactions specifically require notarization to be legally binding.
The Mobile Notary Process for Signing a POA
Step 1: Scheduling the Appointment
With Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, clients can schedule an appointment at a time and location that suits them. This flexibility is particularly helpful for families managing emergencies or last-minute needs.
Step 2: Identity Verification
The notary checks the principal’s identification—typically a driver’s license, passport, or state ID—to confirm authenticity.
Step 3: Ensuring Understanding and Voluntariness
The notary asks questions to confirm that the principal understands the document they are signing and is not under duress. This protects against future disputes.
Step 4: Witness Requirements
Some types of POAs in California require witnesses in addition to notarization. A mobile notary can coordinate the witnessing process if needed.
Step 5: Notarization and Certification
Once verified, the notary applies their official seal and signature, making the POA legally valid and enforceable.
Legal Compliance and Fraud Prevention
Mobile notary services ensure compliance with California notary laws, preventing errors that could render a POA invalid. Fraudulent POAs are unfortunately common, and notarization serves as a safeguard by requiring identity checks, signed journals, and strict verification protocols.
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, notaries follow all state-mandated procedures, ensuring that every POA notarized is legally defensible and recognized by institutions.
POA Notarization in Hospitals, Care Homes, and Private Residences
Hospital Settings
Doctors and nurses often request immediate POAs when a patient is unable to speak for themselves. Mobile notaries provide bedside services to expedite the process.
Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities
Mobile notaries visit elder care facilities to help residents execute POAs that protect their healthcare and financial interests.
Private Residences
For convenience and privacy, many families choose to sign POAs at home, with a mobile notary ensuring the process remains professional and legally sound.
How Mobile Notary Services Save Time in Real Estate POAs
Real estate transactions are time-sensitive, and when the buyer or seller cannot be present, a Real Estate POA may be required. A mobile notary ensures documents are signed and notarized quickly, helping avoid closing delays or contract breaches.
Why Choose Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan?
Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan in Los Angeles has built a reputation for professionalism, reliability, and compassion. Our team understands the sensitive nature of POA signings and provides services designed to reduce stress for families.
We also offer Live Scan fingerprinting, apostille services, and general mobile notary services, making us a one-stop solution for legal and business documentation needs.
For clients who may also need international use of their POA, we guide them through the apostille process so the document is valid abroad.
FAQs About Mobile Notary Services for Powers of Attorney
Do all Powers of Attorney need to be notarized in California?
While some POAs only require witnesses, most—including durable and financial POAs—must be notarized in California to be legally enforceable.
Can a mobile notary come to a hospital or nursing home?
Yes. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we frequently visit hospitals, nursing homes, and private residences to notarize POAs, especially when time is critical.
How much does it cost to notarize a Power of Attorney in Los Angeles?
The cost depends on the number of signatures and travel distance. California sets maximum notarial fees by law, and travel fees vary. Contact us for an exact quote.
Can a notary explain the contents of a Power of Attorney?
No. A notary’s role is to verify identity and witness the signing—not to provide legal advice. If you need clarification, consult an attorney before the notary appointment.
What if the signer is not mentally competent?
A notary cannot proceed if the principal does not demonstrate understanding of the document. This safeguard prevents abuse of vulnerable individuals.
Final Thoughts
Notarizing a Power of Attorney is a serious responsibility, and having the process completed correctly ensures the document is legally valid and accepted by institutions. Mobile notary services make this process easier, faster, and more compassionate—especially during life’s most challenging moments.
If you need professional mobile notary services for signing a Power of Attorney in Los Angeles, trust Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan to handle the process with care and accuracy.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
