When legal documents need to be verified, one of the most crucial steps is notarization. Yet, not all notarial acts are created equal. Understanding the types of notarial acts ensures you’re properly safeguarding your documents and avoiding costly mistakes. In this blog, we’ll explore the top three most common notarial acts, breaking down what they are and when they’re needed.
1. Acknowledgments: Confirming Identity and Willingness
One of the most widely requested types of notarial acts is the acknowledgment. This act is used to certify that the signer of a document personally appeared before a notary, was identified as the individual stated in the document, and willingly executed the document without coercion. For example, acknowledgments are often required for real estate deeds, trusts, and loan documents.
Here’s why an acknowledgment is so vital: it ensures that the document wasn’t signed under duress and that the signer’s identity checks out. Without this step, legally binding agreements run the risk of being challenged later in court. If you’re dealing with property contracts or high-stakes agreements, the acknowledgment form of notarial act is likely a necessity.
2. Jurats: Oaths and Affirmations Under Penalty of Perjury
The jurat is another one of the common types of notarial acts that ensure the truthfulness of a document. With a jurat, the signer must swear or affirm under penalty of perjury that the statements in the document are true. This requires the signer to appear in person before the notary and execute the document in their presence.
Jurats are frequently used in affidavits, depositions, and applications for legal proceedings. This type of notarization is essential when there is a legal need to verify not only the identity of the signer but also their honesty and commitment to the truth. By administering an oath, the notary acts as both a witness and an accountability checkpoint, giving the document extra integrity in the eyes of the law.
3. Copy Certification: Verifying True and Accurate Copies
A lesser-known yet incredibly important notarial act is the copy certification. This type of notarization involves the notary certifying that a copy of a document is a true and accurate reproduction of the original. However, it’s important to note that not all states allow notaries to perform copy certifications, and certain documents, like vital records (birth or death certificates), are restricted from being copied this way.
Copy certifications are commonly used for academic diplomas, passports, or business licenses when a verified duplicate is required for legal, educational, or professional purposes. In case the original gets lost or damaged, a notarized, certified copy can serve as an equally valid backup.
Why Knowing the Types of Notarial Acts Matters
The types of notarial act each serve a unique purpose, protecting individuals, organizations, and legal systems. By familiarizing yourself with the primary types—acknowledgments, jurats, and copy certifications—you can better navigate legal requirements and ensure your documentation is handled appropriately.
Whether you’re signing a property deed, submitting an affidavit for a court case, or verifying a duplicate of your diploma, knowing which type of notarization you need saves time and helps you avoid errors.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the types of notarial acts gives peace of mind that your important documents are secure and legally sound. Before seeking out a notary, take the time to identify the specific service required and ensure the notary you choose is authorized to perform it. Every small step in the notarization process is designed to protect you against fraud and uphold the integrity of your agreements.
If you ever find yourself overwhelmed by the notarization process, remember: the notary’s role is to guide you through it. With the right information at hand, you can approach any legal or personal transaction confidently.
Need more information about notarial acts near you? Reach out to Acclaimed James Notary to learn more. Schedule your next notarization here.
