Why You Need a Notary for Your Health Care Directive

Ensuring Your Voice is Heard

Imagine a scenario: You are in the hospital, unable to speak. Your family is distraught. The doctors are asking for a decision on a critical procedure. Your son says "Do it," your daughter says "Don't." Who decides? Without an Advance Health Care Directive (AHCD), this scenario can lead to conflict, delays in care, and even court intervention. An AHCD clarifies who speaks for you.

The "Witness" Trap

Many people try to save money by using witnesses instead of a notary for their AHCD. In California, this is legally allowed, but the restrictions on who can be a witness are complex. For example, at least one witness must not be related to you or entitled to any part of your estate. If you are in a skilled nursing facility, a patient advocate (ombudsman) must also witness. If you choose the wrong witnesses, the document could be invalid.

The Notary Solution

Hiring a notary bypasses the "witness trap." A Notary Public is a state-vetted, neutral official. Our seal confirms that we verified your identity and determined you were signing voluntarily.

Universal Acceptance: Medical systems are risk-averse. They look for the notary stamp as the gold standard of validity. When time is critical, you don't want a hospital administrator debating the eligibility of your neighbor as a witness. You want them to see the seal and act on your instructions immediately.

Bedside Service

We specialize in hospital and skilled nursing facility notarizations. We understand the protocols of Torrance Memorial, Providence Little Company of Mary, and local care homes. We act with compassion, ensuring the patient is treated with dignity while efficiently executing the documents that grant them control over their medical future.