Notary FAQ - Diem Notary & Paralegal Services, LLC

Frequently Asked Questions - Notary Services

What is a Notary Public?

A Notary Public is an official of integrity appointed by a state government to serve the public as an impartial witness during the execution of certain legal documents.

In order to be a Notary Public in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, an individual must be over 18 years of age, a resident of Pennsylvania, obtained a background check, completed three hours of Notary education and passed an approved exam to receive a notary commission.

Do you have a physical office?

Currently, I only offer mobile services. I am available to meet you at a place and time that is convenient for you. I cover Lancaster, York and Dauphin counties.

What types of IDs can I use?

In Pennsylvania, the following types of IDs are accepted:

U.S. passport of passport card (CURRENT);
Driver’s license or non-driver ID card (CURRENT); or
Other form of a current government identification containing a signature
or photo (CURRENT).

Can I schedule an appointment with you online?

My calendar is available here.

Do you provide documents?

In Pennsylvania notaries are not able to provide or prepare legal documents. This would be considered unauthorized practice of law. A notary’s sole responsibility is to positively identify the signer.

Do you provide witnesses?

No, I do not. It is the responsibility of the signer to provide the necessary witnesses required for the execution of the documents.

Do you charge a travel fee?

As a mobile notary, I provide a convenience service by coming to you. With this convenience, there is a cost that is calculated for my time and travel.

Can a Notary Public refuse to notarize a document?

A Notary Public may refuse to perform a notarial act if the Notary is not satisfied that:

The individual executing the record is competent or has the capacity to execute the document;
The individual’s signature is knowingly and voluntarily made;
The individual’s signature on the document or statement substantially conforms to the signature on the form of identification presented to determine the identity of the individual; or
The physical appearance of the individual signing the document or statement substantially conforms to the photograph on a form of identification used to determine the identity of the individual.

A Notary Public may not refuse to provide notarial services based on a customer’s race color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity (including pregnancy), disability or marital status.