Power of Attorney (POA)

A legal document giving someone the authority to act on another’s behalf in financial, legal, or medical matters.

 

Types include:

• General POA – Broad authority for most legal/financial decisions.

• Durable POA – Stays in effect even if the signer becomes incapacitated.

• Medical POA – Authorizes decisions about healthcare.

• Limited/Special POA – Grants specific powers for a limited time or task.

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Wills and Trusts

Will – A legal document stating how a person’s assets should be distributed after death.

 

Trust – Allows a third party (trustee) to manage assets on behalf of beneficiaries.

Note: Most wills do not require notarization but may need witnesses. Trusts often do require notarization.

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Medical Directives

Also known as Advance Directives or Living Wills, these outline a person's healthcare wishes if they’re unable to speak for themselves. Common in end-of-life care planning.

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Parental Consent Forms

These authorize another adult to make decisions or travel with a minor child. Often used for:

• School trips

• Travel abroad

• Temporary guardianship

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Real Estate Documents

Notarization is often required to make these legally binding:

• Deeds (Grant, Warranty, Quitclaim) – Transfer property ownership.

• Refinance Documents – Involve restructuring an existing mortgage.

• Loan Closing Packages – Full sets of documents when purchasing or refinancing a home.

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Affidavits and Statutory Declarations

Written statements of fact voluntarily made under oath or affirmation. Commonly used in court cases, insurance claims, and immigration matters.

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Vehicle Title Transfers

When buying or selling a vehicle, the title must be legally transferred to the new owner. Some states require notarization on the title or Bill of Sale.

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Acknowledgments & Jurats

Acknowledgment – Signer confirms they willingly signed the document. No oath required.

Jurat – Signer swears or affirms the contents are true. Must sign in front of the notary.

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Adoption and Guardianship Papers

Legal documents establishing parental rights or guardianship over a child or incapacitated adult. Often required by courts and agencies to be notarized.

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Business Agreements

Contracts, partnership agreements, and operating agreements may be notarized to provide authenticity and reduce the risk of disputes.

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School and Sports Travel Forms

Used for children traveling for school events, sports, or out-of-town activities. Typically require parental permission and emergency contact authorization.

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Bill of Sale

A legal document that transfers ownership of personal property (e.g., vehicles, electronics). It outlines the item, price, and parties involved.

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Deed of Trust or Mortgage

A Deed of Trust is used in some states instead of a traditional mortgage. It involves three parties (borrower, lender, and trustee) and secures the loan with real estate.

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Quitclaim Deed

A legal instrument used to transfer ownership of property without guaranteeing clear title. Often used between family members, in divorces, or to clear up title issues.

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