What is an Independent Witness?
Why Documents Require a Disinterested Third Party
An independent witness is an adult with no personal or financial stake in the document being signed. Their presence serves as evidence that the signer acted voluntarily, understood what they were signing, and was not under duress — and that the signature was genuine.
Using a family member, friend, or anyone who stands to benefit from the document is generally not permitted. Courts and institutions look more favorably on independent, professional witnesses who can be located and called upon if the document is ever challenged.
Our witnesses are fully independent. We have no connection to any party in the transaction, no financial interest in the outcome, and no relationship with the signer — making our witness testimony as credible as it can be.
When You Need a Witness
Documents That Commonly Require Independent Witnesses
Estate & Personal Documents
- Last will and testament (2 witnesses required in Missouri)
- Living wills and advance directives
- Durable power of attorney
- Healthcare power of attorney
- Revocable living trust
Legal & Real Estate
- Deeds and property transfers
- Beneficiary / transfer-on-death deeds
- Loan and mortgage documents
- Settlement agreements
- Contracts requiring witnessed signatures
Combined Services
Witness and Notary in One Appointment
Many documents require both a notary and one or more witnesses. Rather than arranging these separately, Missouri Signature Services can provide both services in a single visit — saving you time and ensuring all formalities are completed correctly at the same signing.
This is particularly valuable for will signings, which in Missouri require two adult witnesses present at the same time the testator signs. We coordinate all parties and ensure the signing is properly conducted.
How It Works
Straightforward Scheduling
1. Contact us. Let us know what document requires witnessing, how many witnesses are needed, and your preferred location and time.
2. We confirm and arrive. We will confirm the number of witnesses required for your specific document and arrive at the agreed location on time.
3. Witnessing takes place. We observe the signing, confirm the signer's identity, sign as witnesses, and provide our contact information in case the witness signature ever needs to be verified.
Do not sign the document before we arrive. The witness must observe the actual act of signing.
FAQ
Common Questions
How many witnesses does a will require in Missouri?
Missouri law requires two adult witnesses to be present when a will is signed. Both witnesses must sign in the presence of the testator and each other. We can provide both witnesses in one appointment.
Can a notary also serve as a witness?
In many cases, a notary can also serve as one of the required witnesses. However, this depends on the document type and the requirements of the receiving institution. We will confirm this during scheduling.
Can a family member be a witness?
For wills, Missouri law disqualifies anyone who is a beneficiary or heir from serving as a witness. For other documents, witness requirements vary. When in doubt, an independent professional witness eliminates any potential challenge to the document's validity.
What if I need a witness urgently?
Contact us directly and explain your situation. We prioritize urgent requests, particularly for healthcare and end-of-life documents.
Can you come to a hospital or nursing home to witness?
Yes. We provide witness services at all types of locations, including healthcare facilities. See our Hospital & Nursing Home Notary page for more detail.