Tennessee Jail, Prison, or Detention Center Inmates and Advanced Healthcare Directives
- Jail Notary Services
- Aug 4
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 5
When coordinating notary services for inmates in Tennessee, families often prioritize immediate legal matters—like power of attorney, custody agreements, or inmate release forms. But one critical document is often forgotten: the Advance Healthcare Directive (AHD).
If your loved one is incarcerated for an extended period or faces ongoing medical challenges, creating an AHD is a vital step in protecting their rights and health.
What Is an Advance Healthcare Directive?
An Advance Healthcare Directive allows an individual to formally appoint someone to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated. It may also include specific instructions about treatments they do or do not want.
For inmates in Tennessee correctional facilities, an AHD ensures family members can legally advocate for their loved one’s medical care in emergencies.
The good news for Tennessee residents is that free, state-specific Advance Healthcare Directive forms are available from reputable sources like AARP.
We encourage families already scheduling a jail notary to include this document in their package—especially if the inmate has health issues or is serving a longer sentence.
Important Considerations Before Sending a Notary to a Tennessee Facility
Arranging mobile notary services to a Tennessee jail, prison, or detention center requires careful preparation. Here are five key tips:
Inmate Notification Is Essential - Always confirm that the inmate knows about the notary appointment. They should expect the visit and understand what it’s for.
Review the Document in Advance - Make sure the inmate understands and agrees to sign the Advance Directive before the notary arrives.
Contact the Facility About Entry Rules - Not all Tennessee facilities allow notaries inside. Check with the jail or prison staff about their visitor policy.
Check for Witness Requirements - Some documents may require witnesses beyond the notary. Ask if guards can serve as witnesses or if an additional notary or approved civilian can enter with the signer.
Verify Notary Approval Lists - Some facilities only accept notaries from pre-approved vendor lists. Always ask if this applies before making arrangements.
Find a Jail Notary in Tennessee
Need help finding a notary near a jail or prison in Tennessee? Use our Jail Notary Locator Tool to search by location. If you don’t see a match for your area, request a free quote, and we’ll help you schedule services—even for emergency situations.
Take Action Now—Before It’s Too Late
Having a signed Advance Healthcare Directive in place gives families peace of mind and ensures that inmates receive medical care that aligns with their wishes.
At Jail Notary Services, we’re here to support Tennessee families with professional, secure, and timely notary services—even inside correctional facilities.
