Can I sign a document that is written in pencil or do they need to re-write it in ink? I know that they must sign in pen and I always provide one, but I work in a prison and the inmates are not allowed to have them. I need to know if we need to adjust policy to include a pen for legal documents. — T.G., Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s Notary law doesn’t address a document written in pencil. However, the statute does say a notarial officer may refuse to perform a notarial act unless refusal is prohibited by law other than Pennsylvania’s Notary statutes (57 Pa.C.S. 308[b]). If you do not feel comfortable notarizing a document written in pencil – and the NNA certainly would discourage that you do – this statute may give you the right to refuse.
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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