Alaska Jail, Prison, or Detention Center Inmates and Advanced Healthcare Directives

Jail Notary Services
Jun 9
3 min read

Updated: Jun 24

When a loved one is incarcerated, families are often focused on immediate legal needs — such as obtaining power of attorney, divorce paperwork, or inmate release forms. However, one of the most overlooked but critically important documents for individuals facing extended time in prison or jail is the Advance Healthcare Directive.

If your loved one is incarcerated in Alaska, this document should not be ignored.

What Is an Advance Healthcare Directive?

An Advance Healthcare Directive (also known as a living will or healthcare proxy) is a legal document that outlines a person’s preferences for medical treatment in case they are unable to speak or make decisions for themselves. It also allows them to appoint someone they trust to make healthcare decisions on their behalf.

For inmates who may face prolonged incarceration — especially those with health concerns or at an advanced age — having this document in place can protect their dignity and medical wishes in times of crisis.

Alaska Residents Get This for FREE

The State of Alaska provides its residents with free Advance Healthcare Directive forms. These forms are legally recognized across the state and are an essential part of planning, especially for individuals incarcerated in:

Borough or City Jails
Alaska Department of Corrections Facilities
Federal Prisons
Adult Detention Centers

You can download the free form from AARP's official website — or simply visit our Jail Notary Services Free Forms Page to find the downloadable version tailored for Alaska.

Why Include It with Other Jail Notary Requests?

If you’re already sending a mobile notary to visit your loved one for documents like power of attorney, divorce, or property transfers — it makes sense to include the Advance Healthcare Directive in the same visit. It can save both time and money, and more importantly, ensure your loved one’s medical preferences are officially documented.

Important Things to Know Before Sending a Notary to a Jail or Prison

Not all correctional facilities operate the same, so here are five crucial tips before booking a notary visit:

1. Inmate Confirmation

Always make sure the inmate knows a notary is coming. Never schedule a notary visit without speaking to the inmate directly, either by email, phone, or through the facility’s internal communication system.

2. Document Clarity

Confirm the inmate understands what document(s) they’ll be signing. Notaries cannot provide legal advice or explain forms — make sure your loved one is ready and willing to sign beforehand.

3. Facility Entry Approval

Some jails, prisons, or detention centers do not allow notaries inside or have specific restrictions. Call the facility ahead of time and ask if outside notaries are allowed to conduct notarizations inside.

4. Witness Requirements

Review your documents to determine if a witness is needed in addition to the notary. Many jails do not allow guards to act as witnesses, and some facilities only allow one notary in at a time. Ask the facility:

Can a second notary enter as a witness?
Can a civilian enter as a witness?

5. Approved Notary Lists

Some facilities require notaries to be pre-approved or on an “approved vendor list.” Always ask if this is the case for your loved one’s facility before scheduling your appointment.

Need Help Finding a Jail Notary in Alaska?

Use our Find a Jail Notary Provider tool to search for local notaries who are experienced in correctional notarizations. If you don’t see your area or jail listed, don’t worry — just request a free quote and we’ll match you with a certified professional who can assist with emergency notary services, even on short notice.

Search our Jail Notary Services Directory

Final Thoughts

Inmate families already have enough to manage — don’t let an unexpected health emergency add legal chaos to the situation. Including an Advance Healthcare Directive with your other notarized documents can give peace of mind, both to you and your incarcerated loved one.

We’re here to help you every step of the way.