This is now the question: Remote or Traditional?
The decision to use a traditional notary versus a remote online notary for estate planning clients will depend on a variety of factors, including the client’s needs, preferences, and the laws of the state in which they reside. Here are some considerations:
Client preference: Some clients may prefer the convenience of remote online notarization, while others may prefer the in-person experience of a traditional notarization. It’s important to consider the client’s preference and comfort level with technology when deciding which option to use. In our experience at Online Notary Anywhere, the clients prefer the convenience over in-person. Why? 24/7 scheduling, no one visiting their home or office especially these days. Also, the need to print several documents, 100+ typically saves time and money for both clients, attorney and Notary. How about the environment? Less paper and ink.
Legal requirements: While many states have adopted laws allowing for remote online notarization, not all states have done so, and those that have may have specific requirements that must be met. It’s important to be familiar with the laws of the state in which the client resides and ensure that the notarization process complies with those laws. Online Notary Anywhere is a State of Nevada notary firm which, under the state statutes of Nevada, allow us to remotely notarize in all 50 States. We are also permitted to notarize estate documents, not allowed in all states.
Complexity of the estate plan: If the estate plan is relatively simple, a remote online notarization may be sufficient. However, if the estate plan is more complex, involving multiple parties or requiring additional documentation, an in-person notarization may be a better option to ensure all parties are present and all necessary documents are signed and notarized correctly. Once again to gather everyone in one place at the same time is a challenge. Multiple parties can set up separate appointments online at their convenience. Our company has worked many times with clients not only at different times, but also in difference states and even outside the US.;
Liability concerns: Estate planning documents are critical legal documents, and errors or omissions in the notarization process can have serious legal consequences. Notaries, whether traditional or remote, should carry Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance to protect against potential liability. It’s important to consider the level of protection offered by the notary’s E&O insurance policy and ensure that it meets the needs of the client. Our company’s notaries all carry $1,000.000 dollar limit policies.
In summary, whether to use a traditional notary or a remote online notary for estate planning clients will depend on a variety of factors. While remote online notarization can offer convenience and flexibility, it’s important to ensure that it complies with state laws and meets the needs of the client.
