The LCF Mobile Notary Blog

Can A Notary Public Marry People?

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 01:15:08 GMT

State Laws And Requirements Explained

Often people wonder if a notary public can legally perform marriage ceremonies. While notaries serve important roles in witnessing signatures and verifying identities, their authority varies by location. In most U.S. states, notaries cannot perform marriages unless they hold additional credentials or certifications beyond their notary commission. A standard California Notary Public cannot legally perform a marriage ceremony. California law does not authorize Notaries to solemnize marriages as part of their commissioned duties. To get married in California, you will need an authorized officiant like a priest, minister, judge, or court official, or you can choose self-solemnization , where you and your partner marry each other.

We see significant differences in marriage officiant requirements across jurisdictions. In Florida, Maine, and South Carolina, properly certified notaries can conduct wedding ceremonies. Other states maintain strict limitations on who can solemnize marriages, typically restricting this authority to religious officials, judges, or specifically designated civil servants.

Before selecting a notary to officiate your wedding, we recommend checking your state's specific laws. This prevents potential legal complications and ensures your marriage will be recognized as valid under local statutes. A quick call to your county clerk's office can provide clarity on approved officiants in your area.

Understanding the Role of a Notary Public

A notary public serves as a state-appointed official who acts as an impartial witness in important document signings and transactions. These officials verify identities and ensure proper execution of legal documents to prevent fraud.

Official Duties of Notaries Public

Notaries witness signatures on legal documents and verify signers' identities through government-issued photo IDs. We confirm that signers appear willingly and understand what they're signing.

Notaries maintain detailed records of their official acts in a notary journal or logbook. Each entry includes dates, document types, and signer information.

The primary notarial acts include:

Taking acknowledgments
Administering oaths and affirmations
Taking depositions
Certifying copies of documents

Notarial Acts and Legal Limitations

Notaries must operate within strict legal boundaries defined by state laws. They cannot provide legal advice or prepare legal documents.

Most states prohibit notaries from choosing, drafting, or completing legal forms for clients. This restriction helps prevent unauthorized practice of law.

A notary's authority typically extends only within their commissioned state's borders. Some states allow remote online notarization, with specific technical and legal requirements.

Common Misconceptions About Notary Powers

Many people incorrectly believe notaries can provide legal advice or representation. This is strictly forbidden in all states.

The notary's seal or stamp doesn't make a document legal - it only verifies the identity of signers and witnesses their signatures.

Common misunderstandings include:

Notaries can't draft legal documents
A notarized document isn't automatically legal or valid
Notaries don't verify document contents
Notarization doesn't guarantee contract enforceability

Marriage Ceremonies and Legal Authority

Marriage officiation requires specific legal authority granted by state laws and regulations. Different states maintain distinct rules about who can perform legally binding marriage ceremonies.

Who Can Legally Officiate a Marriage

Religious leaders, including ministers, priests, rabbis, and imams, possess the authority to perform marriages in all U.S. states.

Judges, justices of the peace, and court magistrates can conduct civil marriage ceremonies through their government positions.

Some states grant marriage officiation powers to mayors, tribal officials, and state legislators. Native American tribal leaders can perform marriages for tribal members.

Distinction Between Notary and Officiant Roles

Most states do not permit notaries to perform marriage ceremonies. Florida, Maine, South Carolina, and Montana are notable exceptions where notaries hold marriage officiation powers.

A notary's primary role involves witnessing signatures and verifying identities, not conducting ceremonies. Marriage officiants focus specifically on performing wedding ceremonies and ensuring compliance with state marriage laws.

Legal Requirements for Marriage Officiants

Marriage officiants must register with their state or county clerk's office in many jurisdictions. They need to provide proof of their authority, such as ordination credentials or government position.

Officiants must verify the couple's marriage license and ensure all legal requirements are met before performing the ceremony.

After the ceremony, officiants must complete and submit marriage certificates within state-mandated timeframes. Failure to follow these requirements can invalidate the marriage.

States Where Notary Publics Can Perform Marriages

Several U.S. states do explicitly authorize notaries public to perform marriage ceremonies, with each state maintaining specific requirements and limitations for these services.

List of States Granting Notary Marriage Powers

Florida, Maine, Montana, Nevada, and South Carolina currently permit notaries to officiate weddings.

Florida notaries can perform marriages throughout the state after completing a basic civil ceremony training.

Maine implemented notary marriage authority in 2019, allowing notaries to perform ceremonies statewide.

Nevada requires notaries to obtain a separate Certificate of Permission before conducting marriages.

South Carolina and Montana grant marriage authority to notaries automatically upon receiving their commission.

Specific Conditions and Restrictions

Notaries must verify the marriage license is valid and current before performing any ceremony.

The couple must present valid government-issued photo identification to confirm their identities.

Most states require the ceremony to occur within their geographical boundaries.

The notary must complete the marriage certificate and return it to the appropriate county clerk within the specified timeframe, typically 10-15 days.

Process for Notaries to Officiate Weddings

Notaries must first ensure their state commission is active and in good standing. Some states require completion of additional training focused on marriage ceremonies and civil unions.

The notary should maintain detailed records of each ceremony performed, including copies of marriage licenses and certificates.

Required fees vary by state, with Florida capping notary marriage fees at $30 and Nevada allowing market-rate pricing.

After the ceremony, notaries must sign and seal all required documentation using their official notary stamp.

Steps for Notary Publics to Officiate a Marriage

Notaries must complete specific legal requirements and follow precise procedures to perform marriage ceremonies in states where they have this authority. The process involves obtaining proper credentials, verifying marriage licenses, and submitting official documentation.

Application and Registration Procedures

Before officiating marriages, notaries must obtain special authorization through their state's governing authority. Many states require completion of a specialized marriage officiant course.

The application typically includes a background check, proof of current notary commission, and payment of registration fees. These fees range from $25 to $100 depending on the state.

We recommend maintaining detailed records of your authorization and keeping copies of all marriage-related credentials. Most states require renewal of marriage officiant authority every 2-4 years.

Marriage License Certification

Notaries must verify the couple's marriage license before performing the ceremony. Check that all required information is complete and accurate.

Both parties must present valid government-issued photo identification. Compare signatures on IDs with those on the marriage license.

Document examination should occur at least 24 hours before the ceremony. This allows time to resolve any discrepancies or obtain corrected documentation if needed.

Completing and Filing Marriage Documents

After the ceremony, fill out all sections of the marriage certificate with clear, legible writing. Include the date, time, location, and names of witnesses.

Sign the certificate using your official notary signature and apply your seal in the designated area. Make copies for your records before submitting originals.

Submit completed marriage documents to the appropriate county clerk's office within the state-mandated timeframe, usually 10-15 days after the ceremony.

Provide the newlyweds with information about obtaining certified copies of their marriage certificate from the county clerk's office.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Notary publics who perform marriages must navigate specific legal requirements and maintain high ethical standards while managing potential risks and liabilities.

Compliance With State and Local Laws

We must note that each state maintains distinct laws regarding notary authority to perform marriages. Some states explicitly prohibit notaries from conducting marriages, while others grant this power through specific certifications.

In Florida and Maine, notaries hold clear legal authority to officiate weddings. South Carolina requires additional registration with vital statistics offices before performing ceremonies.

Notaries must verify their state's requirements and obtain necessary credentials before conducting any marriage ceremonies. This includes checking local county regulations and maintaining current notary commissions.

Potential Liabilities and Risks

Professional liability insurance becomes essential for notaries who perform marriages. This coverage protects against claims of improper ceremony execution or documentation errors.

We recommend careful verification of couples' identification and marriage licenses. Notaries face legal consequences for knowingly marrying individuals with invalid documentation.

Record-keeping practices must be meticulous. This includes maintaining copies of marriage licenses, ceremony scripts, and witness information.

Ethical Practices in Performing Marriages

Notaries should treat all couples with equal respect and dignity, regardless of their backgrounds. Professional boundaries must be maintained throughout the process.

Clear communication about fees, services, and ceremony options helps establish trust. We advise providing written agreements outlining all terms and conditions.

Religious or personal beliefs should not interfere with professional duties. If a notary feels unable to perform a ceremony, they should refer the couple to another qualified officiant.

Confidentiality remains crucial - personal details about couples should never be shared without explicit permission.

Alternatives to Notary-Officiated Marriages

Multiple qualified professionals and officials can legally perform marriage ceremonies in most jurisdictions across the United States, each offering distinct advantages for couples planning their special day.

Other Authorized Marriage Officiants

Religious leaders like ordained ministers, priests, rabbis, and imams regularly conduct marriage ceremonies for their congregations and sometimes for non-members.

Judges at various levels - from municipal court judges to supreme court justices - possess the legal authority to officiate marriages.

Many states allow mayors and other elected officials to perform wedding ceremonies within their jurisdictions.

Ship captains can legally marry couples in some states and international waters, though specific regulations vary by location.

Some states recognize ordained ministers from online churches, though couples should verify local laws before choosing this option.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Different Types of Officiants

Religious officiants create ceremonies rich in traditional customs and spiritual meaning, making them ideal for couples seeking a faith-based wedding.

Judges and elected officials typically offer straightforward, efficient ceremonies perfect for couples wanting a quick civil marriage.

Religious leaders may require premarital counseling or church membership, which can add time and cost to the wedding planning process.

Government officials often have limited availability and may only perform ceremonies during business hours at specific locations.

Ship captains provide a unique wedding experience but may have strict requirements about vessel location and passenger capacity.

Online-ordained ministers usually offer the most flexibility in ceremony style and location, though some jurisdictions don't recognize their authority.

Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts

We've learned that most notaries public cannot perform marriage ceremonies in the United States, with a few notable exceptions. Marriage officials must be specifically authorized by state law.

Only three states - Florida, South Carolina, and Maine - allow notaries to officiate weddings as part of their regular duties. Each state has specific requirements and procedures notaries must follow.

Notaries in these states must maintain proper documentation and follow strict protocols when performing marriage ceremonies. They need to verify identities, ensure all paperwork is complete, and submit marriage records to appropriate authorities.

For couples seeking a notary-officiated wedding, checking state laws is essential. Even in states that permit it, notaries may need additional certifications or appointments beyond their standard notary commission.

Important Requirements for Notary-Officiated Marriages:

Valid state authorization to perform marriages
Current notary commission in good standing
Proper marriage documentation and forms
Compliance with state-specific marriage laws
Verification of couple's eligibility to marry

We recommend couples research their state's specific requirements and consult with qualified notaries before planning a notary-officiated wedding ceremony.

A Mobile Notary is Especially Helpful for Healthcare Documents

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 03:36:41 GMT

Notarization Ensures Legal Validity and Accessibility

Navigating healthcare documents can be a complex and time-sensitive process. The Mobile Notary of La Cañada Flintridge provides invaluable service by ensuring that essential documents, such as medical power of attorney and advance healthcare directives, are properly executed and can be signed at a convenient location. This convenience is particularly crucial for patients or family members who may have mobility challenges or time constraints.

With a mobile notary, clients can have peace of mind knowing that important healthcare decisions are recorded accurately and legally. The ability to schedule appointments at our homes, hospitals, or other locations eliminates stress during an already challenging time. This flexibility allows loved ones and care givers to focus on what matters most -- health and well-being.

Moreover, mobile notaries are well-informed about the specific requirements for healthcare documentation in our state, which helps to prevent potential legal issues down the line. By utilizing their services, we ensure that our healthcare wishes are respected and documented in a compliant manner.

Understanding the Role of a Mobile Notary in Healthcare

Mobile notaries play a crucial part in facilitating healthcare document management. Their services ensure that important medical documents are properly executed and witnessed, enhancing the efficiency of healthcare processes.

What Is a Mobile Notary

A mobile notary is a notary public who travels to the document signers' locations. This can include homes, hospitals, or offices. Their primary responsibility is to verify the identity of the signers, ensure that they understand the documents being signed, and witness the signing process.

Mobile notaries are especially vital when physical presence at a notary office is challenging. For example, patients recovering in hospitals may find it difficult to travel. In such cases, mobile notaries provide an essential solution.

Mobile Notary Serves Unique Functions in Healthcare Settings

In healthcare settings, mobile notaries offer specialized services tailored to the unique needs of medical documents. They assist with executing durable powers of attorney, advance healthcare directives, and consent forms. Their presence ensures that these forms are legally recognized, preventing potential future disputes.

For example, executing an advance healthcare directive is a critical process that requires careful attention. The mobile notary confirms that the individual understands their rights and the contents of the document.

Additionally, they help healthcare professionals comply with legal standards while safeguarding patient privacy and confidentiality throughout the notarization process.

Importance of Mobile Notary Services for Healthcare Documents

Mobile notaries improve accessibility to crucial services for patients and healthcare providers alike. They alleviate the burden on patients who may have mobility issues or time constraints.

By offering on-site notarization, we help patients execute important healthcare documents seamlessly. This is particularly helpful for urgent situations where time-sensitive decisions must be made.

Moreover, mobile notaries protect against fraud by validating the identities of signers in real-time. This process fosters trust and integrity in healthcare transactions, ensuring that all parties are informed and consenting.

In summary, a mobile notary enhances the healthcare experience by making documentation easier and more secure for everyone involved.

Types of Healthcare Documents That Require Notarization

Healthcare documents often require notarization to ensure authenticity and legal compliance. Understanding the types of documents that require this process can help us prepare effectively for critical health decisions.

Advance Healthcare Directives

Advance healthcare directives outline our preferences for medical treatment in case we become unable to communicate those wishes. This document can specify the types of treatments we want or wish to avoid.

Notarization helps validate our identity and ensures that our directives are legally binding. In many states, having a notary public witness our signature provides additional protection against potential disputes.

Including clear instructions can guide healthcare providers and our loved ones in making decisions that align with our values.

Medical Power of Attorney

A medical power of attorney designates an individual to make healthcare decisions on our behalf if we become incapacitated. This document allows us to appoint a trusted person, ensuring that our medical preferences are honored.

Notarization is essential as it verifies our identity and intent to assign another person to make critical decisions. A valid notarized document reduces the risk of challenges to the authority of the designated person. Choosing a reliable representative is crucial, as they will act in our best interests during challenging times.

Living Wills

Living wills specify the types of medical treatment we wish to receive or decline in dire medical situations. This legal document provides guidance to healthcare providers regarding our end-of-life care preferences.

Notarization of a living will is a critical step that ensures its enforceability. By having our signature notarized, we help confirm our wishes are genuine and stand up to scrutiny.

Clearly outlining our choices can relieve our loved ones from the burden of making difficult decisions during emotional times.

Advantages of Using a Mobile Notary for Healthcare Documentation

Mobile notaries offer several key benefits when it comes to healthcare documentation. Their services can significantly ease the notarization process for patients and their families, particularly in urgent situations that require immediate attention.

Convenience for Patients and Families

Mobile notaries travel directly to the location of the patient, which enhances accessibility and ease. This is especially valuable for those who are homebound or in healthcare facilities, where transport might be challenging. By eliminating the need to visit a notary’s office, we save time and energy. Families can focus on care instead of logistics. This accessibility ensures that necessary healthcare documents like advance directives are notarized promptly, allowing for a seamless healthcare experience.

Timely Notarization in Urgent Situations

In urgent healthcare scenarios, timing can be critical. Mobile notaries help expedite the notarization process, ensuring that essential documents are completed without delay.

For example, if a patient requires quick installation of a power of attorney or health care proxy, a mobile notary can respond on short notice. By providing prompt service, we help facilitate timely medical decisions, which can be vital in emergencies.

Legal Compliance and Verification

Ensuring legal compliance is a significant responsibility and a mobile notary plays a vital role. They confirm the identities of signers and witness the signing, which helps prevent fraud.

Notarized healthcare documents are often required to be legally valid. By using a mobile notary, we maintain high standards of verification. This safeguard is essential for documents such as living wills and medical powers of attorney. Legal integrity is thus enhanced, giving peace of mind to both patients and families.

How Mobile Notaries Support Hospital and Hospice Environments

Mobile notaries play a critical role in healthcare settings , especially in hospitals and hospice care. Their presence ensures that important documents are executed promptly and legally, catering to the unique needs of patients in these environments.

Facilitating Documents for Incapacitated Individuals

In hospitals and hospice settings, patients may often be incapacitated due to various medical conditions. Mobile notaries help families and healthcare providers navigate the complexities of document signing during these challenging times.

They can assist with crucial paperwork, such as advance directives and power of attorney documents. By coming directly to the patient's location, mobile notaries minimize stress and ensure that essential documents are executed without delay.

Patients can complete needed legal processes while remaining comfortable. This timely intervention supports families in making important decisions regarding medical care.

On-Site Notarization for Restricted Locations

Many hospital and hospice facilities have strict access policies for visitors. Mobile notaries are equipped to handle notarization processes in these restricted environments, providing a convenient solution.

They travel to the site, ensuring that important documents are notarized on the spot. This includes patient consent forms and other legal paperwork often required by healthcare providers.

By providing on-site services, mobile notaries eliminate the need for patients or family members to leave the facility. This accessibility directly benefits individuals in urgent situations, allowing them to focus on care rather than logistics.

Steps Involved in the Mobile Notarization Process for Healthcare Documents

We can simplify the mobile notarization process for healthcare documents into three essential steps. Each step is crucial to ensure that the documents are properly authenticated, providing peace of mind for all parties involved.

Preparing Required Documents

Before we meet with a mobile notary, we must gather all necessary healthcare documents. This may include advanced healthcare directives, power of attorney forms, or any other legal documents requiring notarization.

It's essential to ensure that these documents are complete and legible. We should check for any missing signatures or dates, as these can delay the notarization process. We also need to identify if any supporting documents are required, such as identification for the signer, which helps establish the legitimacy of the request.

Identity Verification Procedures

Identity verification is a critical part of the notarization process. When we meet the mobile notary, we will need to present valid government-issued identification. This can include a driver's license, passport, or state ID.

The notary will carefully examine the ID to confirm it matches our appearance and information on the documents. In some cases, the notary may require a secondary form of identification, especially if there are concerns about identity fraud. We should be prepared to provide additional verification if requested.

Witness Coordination

In certain healthcare documents, witnesses may be required for the notarization to be valid. We must confirm in advance whether witnesses are necessary for the specific documents we want notarized.

If witnesses are needed, we can arrange for them to be present during the notarization appointment. It’s essential that the witnesses are impartial individuals who meet any requirements set forth by state law. The notary will then guide us through the signing process, ensuring that both the signers and witnesses understand their roles in the completion of the documents.

Legal and Ethical Considerations for Mobile Notaries in Healthcare

Mobile notaries play a crucial role in healthcare documentation, but they must navigate various legal and ethical considerations to ensure compliance and protect clients' rights. Awareness of privacy laws and the importance of assessing a client's capacity can significantly impact the notarization process.

Privacy and HIPAA Compliance

We recognize the critical importance of privacy when handling healthcare documents. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) governs the use and disclosure of Protected Health Information (PHI).

Mobile notaries must be cautious to:

Avoid discussing sensitive information in public spaces.
Store any physical or electronic documents securely.
Confirm that clients understand their rights regarding PHI.

Failure to comply with HIPAA can result in severe penalties, including fines and loss of professional credibility. We must familiarize ourselves with these regulations to ensure we protect our clients’ sensitive information adequately.

Assessing Capacity and Voluntariness

Assessing a client's capacity to sign documents is essential in ensuring the legality of the notarization. We must determine whether individuals understand the nature of the documents they are signing.

Key aspects of this assessment include:

Asking clear, straightforward questions.
Observing body language and demeanor for signs of confusion or coercion.
Ensuring that clients give consent without undue pressure.

If we suspect that a client lacks capacity or is not signing voluntarily, we must refuse to notarize the documents. Upholding ethical standards in capacity assessments contributes to the integrity of our work and protects vulnerable populations.

Choosing a Trusted Mobile Notary for Healthcare Needs

Selecting the right mobile notary involves understanding specific qualifications and asking pertinent questions. At The Mobile Notary of La Cañada Flintridge , we ensure professionalism and reliability, especially when dealing with healthcare documents.

Qualifications to Look For

When we search for a mobile notary, certain qualifications are essential. First, confirm that the notary is licensed and holds an active commission in our state. This verifies their authority to notarize documents legally.

It's also beneficial if the notary has experience in handling healthcare documents, such as advanced directives, powers of attorney, and medical consent forms. Familiarity with these documents can reduce complications.

Additionally, check for any specialized training or certifications related to healthcare notary services. This can demonstrate their commitment to understanding the specific requirements that come with medical documents.

How Does Mobile Notary Work?

Wed, 28 May 2025 23:22:40 GMT

When a Notary Public Comes to You

We, as a mobile notary public provide notarization services by traveling to you, the client’s location, which offers tremendous convenience and flexibility. Here’s how it works, particularly in the context of La Canada Flintridge, California:

Scheduling the Appointment: Contact The Mobile Notary of La Canada Flintridge by phone, email, or through our website (e.g., https://www.mobilenotarylacanada.com / ). We offer 24/7 availability, allowing you to schedule at a time and place that suits you—home, office, jail, hospital, or even a public location like a coffee shop. You can specify the type of document(s) needing notarization (e.g., real estate papers, power of attorney, wills, etc.) and the number of signatures to be notarized. This helps the notary prepare and estimate fees in advance.

Document Preparation: You will be providing the documents requiring notarization. The documents must be complete, with no blank fields, as notaries cannot notarize incomplete documents per California law. The notary you speak with may ask for details about the document type to ensure they bring the correct tools, such as a notary stamp or journal, and to confirm they can legally notarize the document.

Travel and Meeting: Our mobile notary travels to your chosen location in Ventura County, whether it’s Ventura, Oxnard, Thousand Oaks, or a rural area like Ojai. Travel distance may affect fees, typically ranging from $15-$50 in addition to standard notarization fees.
At the meeting, you must present a valid, government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport) to verify your identity. All signers must be present, as California notaries are required to witness the signing in person.

Notarization Process: Our notary will review the document to ensure it’s complete and appropriate for notarization. They confirm your identity, verify your willingness to sign, and ensure you understand the document (though they cannot provide legal advice unless also a licensed attorney). You must sign the document in the notary’s presence. The notary then completes the notarial certificate, affixes their official seal, and records the transaction in their notary journal, as required by California law.

Fees and Payment: In California, the maximum fee per signature notarized is $15, as set by state law (e.g., $30 for two signatures). Our mobile notaries charge additional travel fees, which vary based on distance, time of day, or urgency. The charge for travel will also depend on the location and complexity of the documents. Payment is typically collected at the appointment, via cash, credit card, or digital payment methods, depending on the individual notary’s policies.

Completion and Delivery: After the notarization, you keep the original documents, which are now legally notarized and ready for use (e.g., for real estate closings, court filings, or estate planning, etc. The notary will retain a record of the transaction in their journal, which is kept confidential and secure per California state regulations.

La Canada Flintridge Area Context:

We at The Mobile Notary of La Canada Flintridge emphasize serving areas like La Crescenta, Glendale, Eagle Rock, Burbank, Pasadena, Altadena, South Pasadena, and other areas. We often cater to real estate professionals, seniors, and businesses, often handling high-volume or urgent requests.
Common documents notarized include loan packages, deeds, trusts, and medical directives, reflecting La Canada’s active real estate market and aging population.
We strive to offer same-day or emergency appointments, which is a crucial servicefor time-sensitive transactions.

Key Notes:

We, like all mobile notaries are commissioned by the California Secretary of State and follow strict guidelines, ensuring security and legality.
Notaries Public may not notarize documents if the signer appears coerced, incapacitated, or if the document is incomplete or appears fraudulent.
As the client, you should always confirm the notary’s credentials and clarify fees upfront to avoid unwanted surprises.

Our process makes mobile notary services highly convenient for La Cañada Flintridge area residents, especially for those with mobility challenges, tight schedules, or urgent needs. Please call or otherwise contact us directly for availability.

Wills & Estates - Latest Updates

ik@ippei.com (Tori Klein) — Tue, 12 Mar 2019 14:53:24 GMT

No one really wants to talk about their last will and testament, but this is one legal issue you don’t want to leave unattended. After all, it could lead to a major rift in your family, one which you are not around to mend.

The importance of having a very clear will and testament takes on even greater magnitude if you have children from more than one marriage, if you have adopted children, and if you don’t have any children at all. Getting expert advice can save your loved ones heartache and grief at a time when they really need to focus on grieving and recovery.

No, the Internet is Not Your Best Source of Legal Advice

ik@ippei.com (Tori Klein) — Mon, 11 Mar 2019 14:55:30 GMT

An increasing number of people are turning to the internet for all sorts of advice. Fashion advice. Medical advice. Marriage advice.

Here are Premium Law, we certainly won’t dissuade you from getting fashion advice online, but we strongly recommend that you don’t turn to Google for legal advice. Because it could end up costing you a whole lot more than you expected.