Information
Find answers to frequently asked questions about Ashley's Mobile Notary Services and Apostille Agent. Learn more about our mobile notary and apostille services in Hampton Roads and internationally. We pride ourselves on adaptability and commitment to excellence in every aspect of our service.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some of the most common questions we receive about our mobile notary and apostille services. We hope these answers provide clarity and assist you in understanding our processes and offerings.
What are the most common questions people ask you about your mobile notary and apostille services?
What does a notary do?
A notary public verifies identities, witnesses signatures, and ensures documents are signed willingly and correctly to help prevent fraud.
Can a notary travel to me?
Yes! A mobile notary can come to your home, office, hospital, or another convenient location.
How much does a notary cost?
Notary fees vary by state law. Mobile notaries may also charge travel or convenience fees in addition to standard notary rates.
What is an apostille?
An apostille is a certificate that verifies the authenticity of a document so it can be legally recognized in another country that is part of the Hague Apostille Convention.
Do I need to notarize my document before getting an apostille?
Yes, some documents (like affidavits or powers of attorney) must be notarized before they can be apostilled. Vital records, however, must be certified copies issued by the state.
What are some of the biggest misconceptions people have about apostilles, and how do you clarify them?
An apostille is the same as notarization.
Not true. A notary verifies a signature, while an apostille verifies the authenticity of the document (or the notary/public official’s authority) for international use. They are different steps.
Apostilles never expire.
While the apostille itself does not technically expire, the receiving country may require “recent” documents (like a birth certificate issued within the last 6–12 months).
Are there any areas within Hampton Roads where you don't provide mobile notary services, or any specific locations you frequently visit?
I'm frequently in the Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Chesapeake areas. I provide Apostille services internationally.
Can you walk me through the typical process a client goes through, from initial inquiry to completed service?
We do a consultation and create an intake form. Gather all resources, and the client is responsible for shipping costs and state fees upfront. It can take up to 3 to 4 weeks. For expediting your documents, there will be a fee.
Need more assistance?
If you have additional questions or require further clarification, please don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help you navigate the complexities of notary and apostille services.
