Delaware Jail, Prison, or Detention Center Inmates and Advanced Healthcare Directives
- Jail Notary Services
- Jun 17
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 24
When arranging mobile notary services for incarcerated loved ones in Delaware, families often focus on urgent legal paperwork—such as power of attorney forms, inmate release authorizations, or divorce documents. But there’s one crucial legal form that frequently goes unnoticed: the Advance Healthcare Directive (AHD).
If your loved one is incarcerated in a Delaware jail, prison, or adult detention facility, completing an Advance Healthcare Directive isn’t just a smart move—it can be life-saving.
Why Advance Healthcare Directives Matter for Inmates
An Advance Healthcare Directive allows an incarcerated individual to designate a trusted person—typically a spouse, parent, or sibling—to make medical decisions on their behalf in case they become unconscious or otherwise unable to communicate.
Without an AHD in place, families may find themselves powerless in medical emergencies, despite being emotionally and financially involved in the inmate’s care.
Fortunately, Delaware offers these forms for free, and you can easily obtain them online.
To get started, you can download the official Delaware Advance Healthcare Directive from the AARP website, which provides state-specific templates at no cost. Be sure to select the form for Delaware to ensure it’s legally valid in the state.
Tips for Sending a Notary to a Delaware Correctional Facility
Booking a mobile notary for a Delaware inmate requires coordination and preparation. Here’s how to ensure a smooth process:
Notify the Inmate in Advance Never schedule a jail notary without confirming—via email or phone—that the inmate knows about the visit and is prepared to sign.
Confirm the Inmate Understands the Document The inmate must be mentally capable and willing to sign the Advance Healthcare Directive. If not, the notary may be unable to proceed.
Check Jail or Prison Entry Policies Not all Delaware correctional facilities allow third-party notaries. Call the facility to verify their notary access rules and approval procedures.
Check Witness Requirements Some AHDs may require one or more witnesses. Ask the facility if guards can serve as witnesses. If not, you may need to send additional notaries or inquire whether civilian witnesses are permitted.
Verify Approved Notary Lists Many Delaware facilities only allow notaries who are pre-approved contractors. Be sure to ask if this applies before scheduling your visit.
Find a Delaware Jail Notary Service Near You
Need help locating a notary for a Delaware prison or detention center? Use our Notary Locator Tool to search for a provider near the correctional facility. If you don’t see your facility listed, request a free quote here and our team will assist you with fast, reliable options—even for emergency visits.
Don’t Delay Medical Protection for Your Incarcerated Loved One
Advance Healthcare Directives are a critical part of prison legal planning, especially for inmates serving long sentences or facing medical concerns. These documents can help families avoid legal barriers during health emergencies.
At Jail Notary Services, we understand the emotional and legal complexities of working with incarcerated individuals. Let us help you handle the notary process with professionalism and care.
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