by Finding a notary is a pretty straightforward task, but finding one that can also offer two witnesses? That can get a little tricky sometimes. Many legal documents, especially wills, affidavits, real estate forms, and powers of attorney, require not only notarization but also the presence of witnesses. Not every notary provides a witness as part of their service.
Let’s go through everything you need to know, without confusion, if you are trying to find out how to find a notary who can offer two witnesses.
Why Do Some Documents Require 2 Witnesses?
It helps to understand why witnesses are needed in the first place before jumping into how to find a notary. Witnesses serve to
- Confirm that the signer signed voluntarily
- Verify the identity of the signer
- Ensure the signer appeared mentally competent
- Strengthen the legal validity of the document
Common documents that may require two witnesses include last wills and testaments, certain affidavits, real estate documents, and medical or legal consent forms.
Key Insight: Notarization and witnessing are two separate legal functions. A notary verifies identity and administers an oath, while witnesses confirm the act of signing. Some documents require both for added legal protection.
Why Notaries Don’t Always Provide Witnesses?
Most notaries do not automatically bring witnesses because –
- Witnesses must be disinterested parties
- Notaries cannot always act as witnesses
- Scheduling additional people increases complexity
- Liability concerns for professional services
Why It Matters: Assuming a notary will provide witnesses can lead to last-minute delays or even failed signings. Many people discover this requirement only when the notary arrives, and by then, it’s often too late.
Option 1: Ask the Notary in Advance
The simplest solution is the most overlooked; just ask up front. When contacting a notary, confirm –
- Can you provide two witnesses?
- Are the witnesses included in your fee?
- Are they legally qualified (disinterested)?
Pro Tip: Always confirm this before booking. Don’t assume witnesses will be included unless explicitly stated.
Option 2: Use Mobile Notary Services That Offer Witnesses
Some mobile notary services specialize in handling complex signings and may provide witnesses upon request. These services are more likely to coordinate additional people, handle legal document requirements, and offer flexible scheduling.
However, they may charge extra for witnesses, and availability may vary by location.
Key Insight: Mobile notaries who offer witness services often operate more like full-service signing agents, especially for real estate or estate planning documents.
Option 3: Bring Your Own Witnesses
In many cases, the easiest solution is to bring your own two witnesses. Your witnesses should be over 18, be mentally competent, not be parties to the document, and not benefit from the agreement. Examples include friends, neighbours, and colleagues.
Why It Matters: Using your own witnesses gives you full control and helps you avoid additional service fees. However, they must meet legal requirements, or the notarization may be invalid.
Option 4: Use Online Notary Services with Witness Support
This is where things get much easier. Modern platforms like eNotary On Call offer –
- Remote online notarization
- Access to professional witnesses (in many cases)
- Fully digital signing sessions
- No travel or scheduling headaches
Pro Tip: This is often the fastest and most convenient option if your state allows remote notarization, especially when you don’t have witnesses readily available.
Key Insight: Online notarization platforms are redefining the process by integrating both notary and witness roles into a single, streamlined digital session, saving time and eliminating logistical challenges.
Option 5: Check Law Offices or Legal Service Providers
Law firms and legal service providers often handle documents that require witnesses. They may provide in-house notaries, supply qualified witnesses, and ensure compliance with legal requirements.
Why It Matters: Using a legal office can reduce the risk of errors or rejection for high-stakes documents (like wills).
Questions You Should Always Ask
Ask these key questions before finalizing your appointment –
- Do I need 2 witnesses for my document?
- Can the notary provide them?
- Are there any additional fees?
- Are the witnesses legally qualified?
- Will the signing meet state requirements?
Key Insight: Clarity upfront prevents costly mistakes. Many notarization issues arise not from legal complexity, but from miscommunication and assumptions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common pitfalls when searching for a notary with witnesses.
- Assuming the Notary Will Bring Witnesses – This is the most common mistake, and the most disruptive as well.
- Using Interested Witnesses – Witnesses must be neutral. Using someone who benefits from the document can invalidate it.
- Not Checking State Requirements – Witness rules vary by state. What works in one state may not work in another.
- Last-Minute Scheduling – Finding a notary and two witnesses on short notice is difficult.
- Ignoring Online Options – Many people overlook online notarization, which can solve the witness problem instantly.
Why It Matters: Mistakes in witnessing can render the entire document invalid, leading to delays, legal disputes, or the need to redo everything.
When You Definitely Need a Notary Who Provides Witnesses?
You should prioritize a notary with witness support when –
- You don’t have access to neutral witnesses
- The document requires strict compliance
- The signing is urgent
- Multiple parties are involved
Key Takeaways: Finding a notary who can offer two witnesses requires planning and clear communication. It is important to confirm availability in advance or bring your own qualified individuals because not all notaries provide witnesses. Mobile notary services and legal offices may offer witness support, but they can involve higher costs and scheduling challenges. Online notarization platforms like eNotary On Call provide a modern solution by combining notarization and witness services into one streamlined process, making it easier and faster to complete legally compliant signings.
Conclusion
It might look complicated at first, but with the right approach, finding a notary who can provide two witnesses is manageable. The key is to plan ahead, ask the right questions, and choose the method that best fits your situation.
Modern solutions like eNotary On Call offer the simplest path in many cases, bringing together notarization and witnesses in one seamless experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a notary provide two witnesses?
Some notaries can provide witnesses, but it is not a standard service. You must request this in advance and confirm availability. There may also be additional fees involved.
2. Can I use family members as witnesses?
It depends on the situation, but generally, witnesses must be disinterested parties. This means they should not benefit from the document. Using family members who are involved may invalidate the document.
3. Are witnesses required for all notarized documents?
No, not all documents require witnesses. Requirements vary depending on the document type and state laws. It’s important to check the specific requirements before scheduling.
4. Is online notarization with witnesses legal?
Yes, in many states, remote online notarization is legally valid. Some platforms provide witness services during the session. Always confirm that your state allows this process.
5. What is the easiest way to get a notary with witnesses?
The easiest way is often through online platforms like eNotary On Call, which can provide both notary and witness services in one session. This eliminates the need to coordinate multiple people. It is also faster and more convenient than traditional methods.
