Why Notaries Are an Essential Part of Will-Making.
- Michael Parise
- Jun 7
- 3 min read

Creating a will is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. It ensures your loved ones are protected, your wishes are honored, and your legacy is clearly defined. But what many people overlook in this critical process is the role of one quiet but crucial figure: the notary public.
At Legally Yours TN, I’ve seen firsthand how a notary’s presence can mean the difference between a legally binding will—and a legal nightmare. Here’s why notaries are not just helpful, but essential when it comes to preparing and executing a will.
1. Notarization Helps Prove Authenticity
A properly notarized will helps eliminate doubt.
When a notary public signs and seals a will, they’re doing more than just stamping paper. They’re confirming that:
The person signing the will is who they say they are
They are of sound mind
They are signing voluntarily and without coercion
This creates a layer of trust and verification that can hold up in court and prevent costly disputes later.
2. Notaries Prevent Fraud and Mistakes
Let’s face it—wills can be contested. Family dynamics change. Emotions run high. If there’s any gray area in how the will was signed or witnessed, it can open the door to challenges.
As a licensed notary, I act as a neutral third party to:
Confirm ID and legal capacity
Spot inconsistencies or red flags
Ensure no one is being pressured
Think of the notary as your personal legal security guard—protecting your final wishes from fraud or error.
3. Tennessee Law Encourages Notarized Self-Proving Wills
In the state of Tennessee, a will doesn’t have to be notarized to be valid—but it’s strongly recommended. That’s because a notarized will can become what's called a self-proving affidavit.
This means:
The will can enter probate without needing the witnesses to testify in court
It saves time, stress, and money for your family down the line
It increases the chances of the will being accepted as-is
At Legally Yours TN, I always offer clients the option to notarize their wills and make them self-proving—it’s a simple step that offers powerful peace of mind.
4. Mobile Notary Services Bring Convenience to You
Many of my clients are elderly, homebound, or simply too busy to deal with courthouse logistics. That’s why I offer mobile notary services for wills and estate documents.
I’ll come to your home, office, hospital, or assisted living facility—anywhere you need. We’ll go over the documents carefully and ensure everything is executed properly, legally, and confidentially.
5. It’s About More Than Paperwork—It’s About Legacy
As an ordained minister, notary, and officiant, I’ve spent my career helping people during the most important moments of their lives—births, weddings, funerals, and estate planning. Helping someone notarize their will isn’t just business—it’s personal.
It’s about making sure your voice is heard long after you’re gone.
Need a Will Notarized in Tennessee?
Whether you’re writing a new will, updating an old one, or finalizing end-of-life documents, don’t skip the notary.
Let me help you do it the right way, the legal way—the Legally Yours way.
👉 Schedule your mobile notary appointment today at LegallyYoursTN.com
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