What should you know before applying for an Apostille?

Before approaching a Competent Authority for an Apostille, think about the following questions:

Is the Apostille Convention valid in both the country where the public document was issued and the country where I wish to utilize it?
Which of the various Competent Authorities identified by the country that issued the public document is the suitable Competent Authority to issue an Apostille for my public document?
Is my paper deemed a public document under the laws of the country where it was issued? Can I get an Apostille for it?
Is it possible to get an apostille services Los Angeles over the mail or do I have to go in person? If you live in a country other than the one that issued your public document, this is especially important.
Will I require numerous Apostilles if I have more than one document?
Is there anything else I need to supply in order to obtain an Apostille?
What is the cost of an Apostille and what are the options for payment?
When will the Apostille be issued?