Have you ever looked at a pile of papers and thought, “It’s already Friday, the clock is ticking, and those papers need an apostille yesterday?” The lawyers in their stylish suits would tell you to be patient, fill out documents, and wait for “processing” time to end. In the meantime, your deadline is getting closer and closer. So, here’s the secret: don’t deal with anyone else. Don’t go to a law firm; go straight to your local Secretary of State’s office. Yes, the real building, not some complicated internet interface – see our helpful hints here!
Stop with the BS about needing an appointment, overnight shipping, or extended consultations. Come in first thing in the morning. Most offices have a window that you can walk inside. Some clerks are really happy at 8 a.m. You’ll be surprised. (And how quickly ten minutes in person can make a week of waiting for snail mail seem like nothing.)
Listen up: the distinction comes down to in-person charm. You say hello, give them your paper, fill out a short form, slide over your ID and payment, and that’s it! In some cases, you can get an apostille right away. Walk-ins get their work done considerably faster with expedited processing, even if it’s not the same day. Drop-offs by courier are slower than the determined person who shows up in person.
A guy informed me he tried to send his file in the mail and waited three weeks. Then he drove his stack to the counter next time—done in an afternoon. These aren’t rare cases; they happen all the time. Don’t send emails back and forth or use legalese. Don’t just sit there and refresh your inbox if you’re in a hurry. Take your lunch break, pack your paperwork, and make the trip.
Also, make sure you have everything you need before you get in the car. Some states want a notary public or specific credentials to look at your signature. Keep all of your IDs in your wallet. The “missing paperwork” walk of shame is not fun for anyone. Call ahead if you need to, but don’t allow anyone persuade you out of attending. Every time, persistence beats paperwork whispers.
Lastly, bring some food. Coffee and donuts keep the government running, and having an energy bar on hand will make you less grouchy while you wait. It’s not rocket science, but don’t tell the attorneys. Don’t let them keep their secrets; let them keep their lines.