Booking a mobile notary for a hospital visit involves important legal steps. The patient must be alert and understand the documents. A good notary will refuse to proceed if the patient is confused or disoriented. This protects the patient and ensures the documents are valid.
Consider this real-life situation. A mobile notary received a call from a woman acting on behalf of her mom. Her mother was the only sibling of her aunt. The aunt had no spouse, children, or estate documents in place. She owned a home, had a retirement account, and kept savings in a bank.
The niece said her aunt was awake and speaking clearly. The notary asked detailed questions to confirm her mental awareness. The niece insisted her aunt understood her surroundings and communicated well. The notary urged her to schedule a same-day visit. She explained that a hospital patient’s condition can change quickly and without warning.
The niece felt confident her aunt would remain stable. She chose to wait until the next day. The following morning, the notary entered the hospital room and found the aunt unresponsive. She could no longer sign or understand anything. The notary could not complete the power of attorney paperwork.
The family felt devastated and shocked. Just one day earlier, their loved one had shared memories and laughed with them.
What Happens Without a Will or Power of Attorney?
If someone dies without a will or power of attorney, state laws decide where their assets go. Usually, the closest relatives inherit. But without a POA, no one can manage the person’s affairs before death. This creates delays and forces families into probate court. The process can be costly, stressful, and unpredictable.
This situation shows the importance of planning early. A power of attorney or will must be in place before an emergency. Don’t wait. Act while your loved one can still make legal decisions and protect their wishes.
