Arkansas Jail, Prison, or Detention Center Inmates and Advanced Healthcare Directives
- Jail Notary Services
- Jun 11
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 24
At Jail Notary Services, we understand the urgency and sensitivity involved when arranging notary services for incarcerated loved ones. Whether you're securing a Power of Attorney, filing for divorce, or obtaining inmate release documents, there's one critical legal form that is often overlooked — and it could mean the difference between receiving or refusing life-saving medical care: the Advance Healthcare Directive.
For inmates facing long sentences, serious health conditions, or advanced age, preparing an Advance Healthcare Directive (AHD) is essential. And if you're arranging emergency notary services for your loved one in jail, prison, or an adult detention center in Arkansas, this is the perfect time to include this document.
What Is an Advance Healthcare Directive?
An Advance Healthcare Directive is a legal document that outlines a person's wishes for medical treatment if they become incapacitated or unable to communicate. It often includes:
Living will instructions
Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders
Designation of a healthcare proxy or agent
This is not just a document for the elderly. For inmates — particularly those in long-term custody or facing medical challenges — an AHD gives them a voice when they need it most.
Arkansas Residents Get It Free
Good news for residents of Arkansas: the state offers a free Advance Healthcare Directive template, making it easier than ever to ensure your loved one’s wishes are legally documented.
We’ve partnered with AARP to offer easy access to these forms.
When Sending a Notary to a Jail or Prison, Follow These 5 Steps:
Booking a notary to a correctional facility is not as straightforward as a home or office visit. Before scheduling, keep these crucial tips in mind:
Always Notify the Inmate First Confirm in writing or over the phone that the inmate knows the notary is coming. Never surprise them with a notary appointment.
Make Sure the Inmate Understands the Document Explain clearly what the document is, and confirm that the inmate is willing and competent to sign it.
Verify Facility Access for Notaries Not all jails or prisons allow notaries to enter. Call the facility first to ensure outside notaries are permitted and what documentation is required.
Check for Witness Requirements Some forms — including healthcare directives — may need additional witnesses. Ask the facility if guards can act as witnesses (many cannot), or if you can bring a second notary or civilian witness.
Ask If the Notary Must Be Pre-Approved Many correctional facilities keep a list of pre-approved contractors. If we’re not already approved, we’ll help guide you through that process — but you must ask the facility ahead of time.
Schedule Smart: Include the AHD with Other Documents
If you're sending a mobile notary to a jail or prison to handle urgent legal matters, it’s smart and cost-effective to have all documents notarized during one visit. Including the Advance Healthcare Directive at the same time ensures your loved one is legally protected — both now and in the future.
Need Help Finding a Notary?
We serve all of Arkansas, but if you don’t see your local jail, prison, or detention center listed on our service map, we still may be able to help.
Or, get started with a customized quote today:
Jail Notary Services is here to help you navigate this complex process with professionalism and compassion. Don’t let your loved one go without the protections they deserve — prepare their Advance Healthcare Directive now, while you’re already working on other crucial legal matters.
Have questions? We’re just a message away.
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