Can You Notarize a Will Without a Lawyer in Iowa?

A common question we receive is whether a lawyer needs to be present to notarize a will. The short answer is no; a notary public can notarize a will regardless of who drafted it. However, it is vital to understand the boundary between notarial acts and legal advice.

A notary's job is to verify the identity of the signer, ensure they are signing willingly and without duress, and witness the signature. A notary cannot tell you if your self-drafted will is legally sound, nor can they choose which notarial certificate to attach if one isn't provided. Doing so constitutes the unauthorized practice of law.

If you have prepared your own will in Iowa and have the necessary witnesses present, our mobile notaries can absolutely administer the oaths for a self-proving affidavit. We provide the essential verification service, leaving the legal strategy to you and your attorney.