Notarized documents are an essential part of many legal and financial transactions. But what exactly does it mean to have a document notarized? This article will explain the definition of a notarized document and what it means to have it notarized.
What is a Notarized Document?
A notarized document is a copy witnessed, authenticated, and signed by a notary public or other authorized official. This means that the notary public or other authorized official has verified the identity of the person signing the document and has witnessed the signing. The notary public or other authorized official is responsible for attaching an official notary stamp or seal to the paper to authenticate it.
The purpose of a notarized document is to ensure that the document is authentic and valid. Having a copy notarized also prevents fraud and protects the parties involved in the transaction from any disputes that may arise as a result of the document. It also creates a transaction record, which can be used in a court of law.
The Difference between a Notarized and a Regular Document
The main difference between a notarized and a regular document is that a notarized document is considered to be more credible and trustworthy. This is because the notary public’s signature guarantees that the document is legitimate and that the parties involved have signed it of their own free will. This is especially important in cases involving contracts, land titles, and other legal documents.
When a notary public is involved in signing a document, they are required to verify the identity of the parties, ensure they understand the document’s contents, and witness the signing of the paper. This is done to prevent fraud or other illegal activity.
In addition, a notarized document is more difficult to challenge in court, as it must be proven that the notary public was absent to witness the document signing or that the parties involved needed to understand the document’s contents. This makes it difficult to claim that the document was not legally binding.
What to Keep in Mind When Notarizing a Document
It is a simple process, but there are a few essential things to remember when notarizing a document.
First, ensure that the document’s signer is present and correctly identified. The notary should check the signer’s photo ID and ensure it is valid and in the same name as the document being notarized. The notary should also ensure that the signer understands the document and signs it of their own free will.
Second, make sure that the document is correctly prepared. All information should be filled out before the notarization. The document should also include a notarial certificate that contains the correct wording and all the appropriate spaces for the notary to fill out.
Third, make sure that the notary is an authorized person. In some cases, only a public notary can notarize a document. In other cases, any notary public can do so. Check the rules in your jurisdiction to ensure the notary is qualified and licensed to perform the service.
Fourth, the notary should ensure all signatures are witnessed and properly executed. All signatures should be signed in the presence of the notary. The notary should also ensure that all signatures are genuine and not forged.
Finally, the notary should keep a record of the document. All documents notarized should be properly recorded in the notary’s journal, and the notary should keep a copy of the document for their records.
Conclusion
A notarized document is a document that has been signed and verified in the presence of a notary public. It is typically used for legal, financial, and real estate transactions and is necessary to ensure the document is legitimate and authentic. Notarized documents are vital because they provide an extra layer of protection against fraud and forgery. They also prevent identity theft and provide a secure way to issue documents. Notarized documents are a critical part of many transactions and can help protect all parties involved.
Angels Notary & Public Tag Service is your one-stop notary shop in Morgan City, LA. Whether you need to have papers notarized, DMV service, fingerprints taken, faxing, emailing, stamps, envelopes, or lamination, we have everything you need to complete the task. Our friendly staff is always eager to help, and our services are of the highest quality. Contact us today to see how we can help you with all your notary needs.