A Quick Guide
Notarial acts are essential for validating the authenticity of various documents and ensuring that the signers are who they claim to be. In California, there are several types of notarial acts that consumers might need, each serving various purposes. The following three are the most common:
- Acknowledgments – An acknowledgement is used to verify that the signer of a document is who they claim to be and that they signed the document willingly. This is often required for documents related to valuable assets, such as deeds, mortgages, and deeds of trust. The signer must personally appear before the notary to be positively identified with proper ID, and to acknowledge the signature on the document as their own.
- Jurats (Oaths/Affirmations) – A jurat, also known as an oath or affirmation, is used when a signer needs to swear or affirm that the contents of a document are true. This is common for affidavits, depositions, and other legal documents. The signer must appear in person, sign the document in the notary’s presence, and take an oath or affirmation.
- Copy Certifications – Copy Certification confirms that a reproduction of an original document is a true and accurate copy. This might be needed for documents like diplomas, driver’s licenses, leases, and medical records. The document custodian must present the original document to the notary, who will then make a photocopy and complete a certificate confirming its accuracy.
Notarial acts play a crucial role in preventing fraud and ensuring the integrity of important documents. They provide a layer of security by verifying the identity of the signers and their willingness to sign the documents. This helps protect consumers and businesses from potential legal issues and disputes.
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