Connecticut Jail, Prison, or Detention Center Inmates and Advanced Healthcare Directives
- Jail Notary Services
- Jun 16
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 24
When a family member is incarcerated, there’s often a rush to organize legal documents—inmate release forms, powers of attorney, and even divorce papers. But there’s one critical form that many overlook, especially for inmates serving longer stays: the Advance Healthcare Directive.
In Connecticut, the state offers free Advance Healthcare Directive forms to all residents. At Jail Notary Services, we strongly urge families to consider preparing this document along with any other paperwork you may be sending a mobile notary to complete.
What Is an Advance Healthcare Directive (AHD)?
An Advance Healthcare Directive allows a person to:
Appoint someone they trust to make medical decisions if they become unable to speak for themselves.
Specify treatment preferences, such as resuscitation, organ donation, or pain management.
Legally document their healthcare wishes in case of emergency or serious illness.
For incarcerated individuals, this can be a lifesaving document, ensuring their medical preferences are respected—even behind bars.
Why This Matters for Inmates in Connecticut
Being in jail or prison limits direct communication and medical autonomy. Without a completed directive:
Doctors may not know who to contact in a medical emergency.
Families may struggle to act on their loved one’s behalf.
Life-altering decisions could be made without input from anyone the inmate trusts.
Get the Forms — Free for Connecticut Residents
Connecticut provides free Advance Healthcare Directives that you can download and complete before your notary visit. AARP offers a reliable, easy-to-understand version of this form:
Important: If You're Sending a Notary to a Jail or Prison… Please Read
Jail notary appointments involve more planning than your typical mobile notary visit. Here are five essential steps to take:
1. ✅ Confirm the Inmate Knows a Notary is Coming
Never book a notary blindly. The inmate should be aware and agree to the meeting in writing or by phone.
2. ✅ Make Sure the Inmate Understands the Document
Notaries cannot explain documents. Ensure the inmate knows what they’re signing (Advance Directive, Power of Attorney, etc.) and is willing to do so.
3. ✅ Check Jail or Prison Entry Rules
Not every detention center allows outside notaries. Call the facility ahead of time to confirm notary access policies.
4. ✅ Ask About Witness Requirements
Some forms—especially AHDs—may require additional witnesses. Ask:
Will the guards sign as witnesses? (Often they will not.)
Can a second or third notary enter?
Can a civilian witness accompany the notary?
If witnesses are needed, you must get prior clearance from the facility.
5. ✅ Check if the Notary Must Be Pre-Approved
Many correctional institutions in Connecticut require that a notary is on an approved vendor list. Always ask this before scheduling a visit.
Need a Jail Notary in Connecticut?
We’ve made it easy for you to find and request jail notary services across the state.
Don't see your facility listed? No problem. Request a free quote and we’ll work to connect you with a licensed notary who can assist:
Final Word: Don’t Delay This Step
Advance Healthcare Directives are more than just paperwork. They are a way to protect your loved one’s rights, medical choices, and dignity while incarcerated. In Connecticut, these forms are free, legally recognized, and can be notarized in the same visit as other critical documents.
If you’re sending a mobile notary to a jail or prison for any reason, take the opportunity to include an Advance Healthcare Directive. Your loved one may not be able to speak for themselves—but this document ensures their voice is heard.
Comments