North Dakota Jail, Prison, or Detention Center Inmates and Advanced Healthcare Directives
- Jail Notary Services
- Jul 23
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 24
When families arrange mobile notary services for incarcerated loved ones in North Dakota, the focus is often on urgent legal matters—like powers of attorney, custody forms, or court filings. Yet one of the most vital documents is frequently left out: the Advance Healthcare Directive (AHD).
If your loved one is in a jail, prison, or detention facility, particularly for an extended period or with health concerns, completing an Advance Healthcare Directive is not just smart—it’s essential.
What is an Advance Healthcare Directive and Why Does It Matter?
An Advance Healthcare Directive allows an inmate to:
Appoint someone they trust to make medical decisions if they cannot.
Clarify preferences for medical treatment in emergencies.
Prevent family confusion and reduce delays during health crises.
This legal document gives both inmates and families peace of mind, knowing that healthcare choices will be honored—even behind bars.
Free North Dakota Advance Directive Forms Available
The State of North Dakota provides free, printable Advance Healthcare Directive forms that comply with state regulations. These forms are easy to complete and should be notarized to ensure validity.
We encourage families to include this document when preparing to send a mobile notary to a correctional facility.
Tips for Booking a Jail Notary in North Dakota
Not all correctional facilities in North Dakota handle notary visits the same way. Follow these best practices:
Inform the Inmate Beforehand - Confirm the inmate knows about the visit and is prepared. Never book a jail notary without the inmate’s awareness.
Ensure the Inmate Understands the Document - The Advance Directive must be signed voluntarily and with full understanding.
Call the Jail or Prison First - Some correctional facilities do not allow outside notaries. Always verify in advance whether notary access is permitted.
Check for Witness Requirements - Some directives require additional witnesses. Confirm whether jail staff will act as witnesses—or if you need to bring a second notary or civilian.
Ask About Approved Vendor Lists - Many North Dakota correctional facilities require outside professionals to be on a pre-approved list. Verify the notary’s eligibility to avoid delays.
Locate a Jail Notary in North Dakota
Use our Jail Notary Locator Tool to find a qualified notary public near your loved one’s facility in North Dakota. If your area isn’t listed, request a free quote and we’ll help you find a notary who can complete the job—even in emergencies.
Don’t Leave Healthcare Decisions to Chance
An Advance Healthcare Directive is just as important as a legal or financial document. If your loved one is in a North Dakota correctional facility, make sure their healthcare wishes are documented and protected.
At Jail Notary Services, we help families coordinate mobile notary visits to facilities across North Dakota with professionalism, urgency, and care.
Comments