Vermont Jail, Prison, or Detention Center Inmates and Advanced Healthcare Directives
- Jail Notary Services
- Aug 7
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 8
When a loved one is incarcerated in a Vermont jail, prison, or adult detention center, families often scramble to get important legal documents signed—such as Power of Attorney, custody agreements, or inmate release forms. But there’s one document that’s equally important and often overlooked: the Advance Healthcare Directive (AHD).
If your loved one is dealing with a long sentence, chronic illness, or potential medical emergencies while incarcerated, preparing an AHD is essential.
Why Vermont Inmates Need an Advance Healthcare Directive
A Vermont Advance Healthcare Directive gives an inmate the power to designate someone to make medical decisions on their behalf in the event they are unable to speak for themselves. Without this document, families may be excluded from life-altering decisions during health crises.
Fortunately, Vermont residents can access free, legally valid Advance Directive forms, making it easier to plan ahead—especially if you're already coordinating mobile notary services for other documents.
You can obtain a free, state-specific Vermont Advance Directive form through the AARP website or the Vermont Ethics Network.
👉 Download Vermont Advance Directive (via AARP)
If you're hiring a jail notary for another document, it’s a smart idea to include the Advance Directive in the same visit to save time and money.
How to Prepare for a Jail Notary Visit in Vermont
To avoid rescheduling or having your notary turned away at a Vermont correctional facility, keep these key tips in mind:
Notify the Inmate in Advance - Never send a notary without confirming—by phone or email—that the inmate knows about the appointment.
Ensure Understanding and Consent - The inmate must clearly understand what they’re signing and must be mentally competent to do so.
Check Jail or Prison Notary Policies - Some Vermont facilities restrict or deny notary access. Always confirm that outside notaries are allowed to enter.
Ask About Witness Rules - Some forms require additional witnesses. Ask the facility if staff can serve this role. If not, determine whether you can send a second notary or civilian.
Verify Notary Approval Requirements - Some correctional institutions only allow notaries from a pre-approved list. Call the facility in advance to check if your chosen notary qualifies.
Find a Jail Notary in Vermont
Use our Jail Notary Locator Tool to find mobile notary services authorized to serve Vermont correctional facilities. If your facility isn't listed, request a free quote, and our team will help you arrange a notary visit—even on short notice.
Don’t Delay Vital Medical Planning
An Advance Healthcare Directive may not feel urgent—until it is. Don’t wait until your loved one faces a medical emergency in jail or prison. By notarizing the AHD now, you ensure their wishes are clear and protected.
Jail Notary Services is here to help Vermont families navigate this important process smoothly and professionally.
Comments