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Credible Witnesses: The Notary’s Backup Plan in California

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In California, proper ID is a must for notarization, but what happens when someone doesn’t have it? Maybe a senior whose driver’s license has expired or someone who misplaced their ID right before a critical signing. That’s where credible witnesses come to the rescue! A credible witness acts as a human "ID card," vouching for the signer’s identity under penalty of perjury. Here’s how it works: You Need One or Two Witnesses If you have one credible witness , they must personally know both the signer and the notary. If you have two credible witnesses , they only need to know the signer personally—not the notary. The Witnesses Provide Valid ID Each witness must present valid, government-issued identification (yes, even they need proper ID!). They Take an Oath The witnesses swear under oath that they personally know the signer and that the signer doesn’t have acceptable ID. They Sign the Notary’s Journal For record-keeping, the witnesses’ information and signatures are recorded

Got Married and Took Your Spouse's Name? Update your ID!

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This comes up a lot!  Update your ID to your married name!  It's a problem if I can't notarize those loan docs or your living trust because your name on the documents doesn't match your ID. It's a thing!  Take care of it today!

Digital ID's May Not be Used for Notarizations in California, Currently.

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Exciting news for Californians! The new CA DMV Wallet app has arrived, letting you carry a digital ID right on your phone. How cool is that? While I'm loving the tech and convenience, here's a friendly reminder that, at the moment, your digital ID can't be used for notarizations. So, if you need a Mobile Notary, don't forget to bring your physical ID. I'll still be here to help with all your notarization needs, flexible as always!  Got questions? The DMV has answers. Check it out here. 

Does Your Elder Have Proper ID?

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When older people stop driving, no one thinks about what it might mean when they don't have valid Government issued ID. As a notary, I still need proper ID to notarize a signature. California Senior ID cards are free for people 62+! Have your elder apply for one today!  

Kids Are Off to College: How to Support Your Child Legally After They Turn 18

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It's only natural, as a parent, to protect your kids, but once your child turns 18, you lose legal access to their medical, financial, and academic records. To continue supporting them, especially in emergencies, you need their written consent. This is especially important if they’re going to college. Many parents aren’t aware of this need, except for those with special needs children. For others, a prompt is often necessary. Key Steps for Parents: Get Consent: Obtain written consent from your child to access their records. This is crucial, when they go off to college. Secure Essential Documents: Durable Power of Attorney Advanced Health Care Directive/Living Will HIPAA Waiver FERPA Waiver (optional) Turning 18: Legal Changes and Actions: Legal Independence: At 18, your child can vote, be sued, take out loans, and must register for Selective Service (for males). Accounts set up for them as minors now belong to them. Medical Privacy: Health providers can't share your child

Navigating the Process: Removing a Joint Tenant After Death

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  Losing a loved one is undoubtedly one of life's most challenging experiences, and amidst the emotional turmoil, there are often practical matters that need attention. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to remove a joint tenant from a property deed after their passing, understanding the process can help alleviate some of the stress associated with this task. In this blog post, we'll explore the steps involved in removing a joint tenant after death, offering guidance to navigate this process smoothly and effectively. Understanding Joint Tenancy Before delving into the removal process, it's essential to grasp the concept of joint tenancy. In a joint tenancy arrangement, two or more individuals jointly own a property with rights of survivorship. This means that if one owner passes away, their share automatically transfers to the surviving joint tenant(s) without the need for probate. Removing a Joint Tenant After Death Obtain a Death Certificate : The first st

Real Property Vesting Options

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How title is held is a critical aspect of property ownership, dictating how ownership rights are vested and how they transfer in the event of sale, inheritance, or other legal processes. Understanding the different ways to hold title on a deed is essential for anyone involved in real estate transactions. Let's explore the various forms of title holding: 1. Sole Ownership: Sole Ownership : This is when a property is owned by a single individual. In this case, the owner has complete control over the property and can sell, mortgage, or transfer it at will. Upon the owner's death, the property will typically pass according to their, trust will or state laws of intestacy. Examples - A Single Woman; An Unmarried Man, A Widow 2. Co-Ownership: Joint Tenancy : In joint tenancy, two or more individuals hold equal shares of the property with the right of survivorship. This means that if one co-owner dies, their interest automatically passes to the surviving co-owner(s). Joint tenants are