Available 24/7 by Appointment | In-office and Mobile
FAQ
Available 7 Days a Week
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are a list of frequently asked questions, but if you have a question that is not listed, please feel free to contact us so that we may help you move forward.
Apostille – FAQs:
How do I know if I need an apostille or authentication?
This depends on the destination country. Hague member countries require an apostille. Non-member countries require authentication and legalization. We confirm this during intake before processing begins.
Can you process documents issued outside Illinois?
In many cases, yes. Apostilles must be issued by the authority where the document originated. We confirm eligibility and coordinate the correct process for out-of-state documents.
Is my information kept confidential?
Yes. We handle sensitive legal and personal documents daily and operate with strict confidentiality and discretion.
Do my documents need to be notarized first?
Some documents must be notarized, while others must be issued as certified originals. We review each document and advise you before submission.
How long does the apostille process take?
Turnaround times vary. We provide realistic timelines and expedited options, when available, before work begins.
Estate Planning Services – FAQs:
Do you offer estate planning signing appointments?
Yes. We offer estate planning signing support for attorney-prepared and online estate planning documents, including will-based and trust-based document sets. If you are unsure which signing package fits your documents, please contact us before booking.
Do my documents require witnesses?
Some estate planning and legal documents require witnesses. Requirements vary depending on the document and the instructions provided by the attorney or issuing authority.
Can you provide witnesses for my documents?
Yes. Witness coordination may be available for qualifying appointments when arranged in advance.
Can family members serve as witnesses?
Sometimes, but many attorneys or institutions require witnesses who are not related to the signer and who do not have an interest in the document. If needed, witness coordination may be available.
Do you prepare or provide estate planning documents?
No. We do not draft or provide legal documents. Our role is limited to the professional execution and notarization of documents prepared by an attorney or an online legal document service.
Do you provide legal advice or explain my documents?
No. We do not provide legal advice, interpret legal documents, or advise you on what you should sign. We help ensure documents are executed correctly and in the proper order based on the instructions provided and applicable notarial requirements.
What is the difference between the Will Signing Package and the Trust Signing Package?
The Will Signing Package is generally best for signings centered around a Last Will and Testament and related supporting documents.
The Trust Signing Package is generally best for signings centered around a trust package and related supporting documents, which may include a revocable living trust, certificate of trust, pour-over will, powers of attorney, HIPAA authorizations, deeds, and related estate planning documents.
If you are unsure which package fits your documents, please contact us before booking.
Are the package prices fixed?
Package pricing reflects the base level of service for the selected estate planning signing package. Additional fees may apply for extra signers, witness coordination, deed recording courier service, rush or after-hours scheduling, or other special circumstances.
Do you only offer in-office estate planning signings?
Public estate planning signings are generally scheduled in-office at our Wheaton office. In certain circumstances, other arrangements may be possible, such as when a signer is elderly, disabled, hospitalized, in a care facility, or otherwise unable to reasonably travel to our office. If a different appointment arrangement may be needed, please contact us before booking so we can review the situation.
Do you provide witnesses if my documents require them?
Witness coordination may be available as an add-on service, subject to scheduling, availability, and document requirements.
Can you record deeds with the county?
Yes. Courier service for deed recording may be available in DuPage County and other greater Chicagoland counties. County recording fees are separate.
What should I bring to my appointment?
All signers must bring valid, unexpired, government-issued photo identification that includes your signature. If witnesses are being provided by the client, witnesses must also bring valid ID.
What if my attorney has special signing instructions?
That is not a problem. We are accustomed to working from attorney-provided signing instructions when available.
Do you work with attorney-prepared and online estate plans?
Yes. We regularly assist with estate planning documents prepared by attorneys as well as documents generated through online legal platforms. It is always a good idea to have your documents reviewed by an attorney prior to notarization and signing, as a notary cannot provide legal advice on your documents.
Do you work with law firms or businesses that require ongoing notary services?
Yes. We regularly work with law firms, businesses, and organizations that require reliable notary, document authentication, and courier services. If your organization requires recurring or large-volume services, please contact us to discuss scheduling and service options.
Need Guidance?
If you’re unsure which service best fits your situation, we’re happy to assist. We’ll review your needs and confirm the most appropriate path forward before booking.