Hotline Tip: How Do I Find Out What Notarial Act Is Required?

An individual brought me a written statement he had made and wants it notarized. Would this be notarized using an acknowledgment or a jurat? – K.H., Duarte, California

Always remember that the Notary may not select the type of notarization on behalf of the signer. If there is not pre-printed notarial certificate wording on the document that indicates the type of notarial act needed, you may describe the difference between an acknowledgment and a jurat to the signer and let the signer choose one or the other. If the signer is still uncertain at this point, the signer should contact the document’s issuing or receiving agency for assistance.