Attorney / Law Industry
Common Documents that may require Notarization (Documents for Domestic Use)
Acknowledgment and Acceptance of Service of Process
This document acknowledges that a party has received legal documents, such as a summons or complaint, and agrees to accept service without the need for formal delivery by a process server.
Addendum to Judgment Custody
An addendum that modifies or adds terms to an existing child custody judgment. Notarization ensures that the parties involved agree to the changes.
Affidavit Non-Foreign Person
A sworn statement used in real estate transactions to confirm that the seller is not a foreign person, which affects tax withholding requirements.
Affidavit of Acceptance
A sworn statement indicating acceptance of certain terms or conditions, often used in various legal agreements.
Affidavit of Stolen Vehicle
A sworn statement declaring that a vehicle has been stolen. This document may be required by insurance companies or law enforcement agencies.
Bankruptcy Petitions
Legal documents filed in bankruptcy court. While not all parts require notarization, certain affidavits or declarations within the petition may need it.
Child Custody Agreements
Agreements between parents regarding the custody and care of their children. Notarization ensures both parties have willingly signed the agreement.
Confidential Settlement and General Release Agreement
A legal document settling disputes between parties and releasing them from further claims. Notarization confirms the authenticity of signatures.
Contracts and Agreements
Various types of contracts (e.g., business agreements) often require notarization to verify the identities of signatories and prevent fraud.
Deposition of Address Change
A sworn statement notifying relevant parties about a change in address. Notarization ensures the information provided is accurate and truthful.
Employment Contracts
Contracts between employers and employees outlining job terms. Notarization can provide additional legal protection for both parties.
Execution of Will
The act of signing a will in front of witnesses. While notarization is not always required by law, it can help validate the will’s authenticity.
Grant Deed
A legal document transferring ownership of real property from one person to another. Notarization verifies the identity of the grantor.
Guardianship Papers
Documents appointing someone as a guardian for another person (usually a minor). Notarization ensures all parties understand and agree to the terms.
Last Will & Testament
A legal document outlining how a person’s assets should be distributed after death. While not always required, notarizing can help prevent disputes over its validity.
Lease Agreements
Contracts between landlords and tenants outlining rental terms. Notarizing lease agreements can provide additional security for both parties.
Marriage Settlement Agreement
An agreement between spouses outlining terms for divorce or separation, including asset division and child custody arrangements. Notarization confirms mutual consent.
Medical Directives (Living Wills)
Documents specifying medical treatment preferences if one becomes incapacitated. Notarizing these directives ensures they are legally binding.
Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs)
Contracts protecting confidential information shared between parties. Notarizing NDAs can provide additional legal enforceability.
Notice of Oral Agreements (Optional)
A written notice confirming an oral agreement made between parties. While optional, notarizing this notice can help substantiate its existence in case of disputes.
Partnership Agreements
Contracts establishing business partnerships, outlining roles, responsibilities, and profit-sharing arrangements. Notarizing these agreements adds legal weight.
Premarital Agreements (Optional)
Contracts entered into before marriage outlining asset division upon divorce or death. While optional in some jurisdictions, notarizing premarital agreements can prevent future challenges to their validity.
Release of All Claims (Optional)
A document releasing one party from liability claims by another party. Although optional, notarizing this release provides proof that it was signed voluntarily without coercion.
Respondent’s Waiver of Service Only (Optional)
A waiver indicating that a respondent agrees to waive formal service procedures in legal actions like divorce cases. Optional but recommended for added legitimacy through notarization.
Disclaimer: This list includes common documents but is not limited to these examples. We are not licensed attorneys; we inform you for informational and educational purposes. Please contact a licensed attorney for legal advice.