If someone has signed a document in the presence of witnesses before I arrive, must they sign a second time above their other signatures in order for me to continue notarizing? — S.B., Houston, TX
The answer depends on the notarial act being performed. If the principal signer signed a document and requires acknowledgment wording, the signer does not have to sign in front of you. The signer can, for example, sign at home in the presence of witnesses, then bring the document to you to have the signature notarized. The client should acknowledge that he signed it of his own free will.
A jurat must be signed in front of the Notary. If a jurat is required, the signer would have to sign the document again in your presence, near their original signature.
Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. – The Editors
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