Uh-oh! Thinking of getting notary service, but worried about the mistakes that may lead to a delay or even a service no? Well, a little mistake during the notarization process can cost you time, money, and even the validity of your documents.
Whether you're finalizing a real estate deal, authorizing a power of attorney, or submitting legal paperwork, overlooking small details can all lead to bigger issues. The notarization process involves strict rules that must be followed exactly.
If you’re planning to use a notary service in Las Vegas, it is important to understand what’s required - and what to avoid. In this guide, you’ll learn about some common mistakes that people make when using a notary service. So, read till the end, so that you can make a better decision!
Not Bringing Valid Photo Identification
The primary job of a notary is to confirm the identity of the person signing the document. If you don’t have a valid, government-issued photo ID, the notary cannot legally perform their duties. Most people just pop up with expired IDs, non-photo IDs, and some even forget to bring an ID altogether.
If you’re wondering what IDs you should carry for notary service, then here’s what you need to know -
Passport
Driver’s license
State-issued ID card
Tribal Identification Card
Military ID (photo and signature)
Government Employee ID (State, Federal, or Local)
If your identification is expired or unclear, the notary may refuse to serve. So, it is advisable to always double-check that your ID is valid and matches the name on your document.
Signing The Document Before You Meet The Notary
This is one of the most common mistakes people make. Notaries are often required by law to witness the signing of the document. If you sign the document before your appointment, the notary may not be able to proceed, and you may have to redo everything.
Even if you're sure the notary won’t mind, it’s not worth the risk. Wait until you are physically in the presence of the notary and they instruct you to sign. This helps ensure that no fraud is committed and that the notary is fulfilling their legal obligation.
If you’re using a mobile notary service in Las Vegas, they’ll usually remind you of this step ahead of time so everything runs smoothly.
Bringing Documents That Are Incomplete or Blank
Another frequent error is arriving at a notary appointment with a document that’s missing/incomplete information, has blank sections, or is improperly formatted. Notaries cannot notarize these documents, as signing an incomplete document opens the door to fraud, as someone could fill in false information after it’s signed.
Always ensure your document is fully prepared, with all necessary information filled out, before the appointment. Also, remember, do not sign it yet. If you're unsure how to fill it out, consider asking the organization or person who issued the document, not the notary.
Unsure Which Type of Notarization You Need
Not all notarizations are the same. There are several types, such as acknowledgments, jurats, oaths/affirmations, and copy certifications. A notary service in Las Vegas is not permitted to choose the type of notarization for you. That would be considered giving legal advice.
Many people arrive at their appointment not knowing what they need, only to be turned away. If you're uncertain, consult with the organization requesting the document or seek legal advice beforehand. This helps you save time and prevent mistakes that could invalidate your paperwork.
Using a Notary Who Isn't Authorized In Your State
Individual states commission notaries and can usually only operate within that jurisdiction. Using a notary from another state, especially for documents that must comply with state-specific laws, can render the notarization invalid. For example, a notary commissioned in California typically cannot notarize a document in Texas or Florida.
Before booking a notary, make sure they are commissioned in your state and authorized to handle the kind of document you’re signing. It’s a simple step that can prevent major legal headaches later.
Ignoring Local Notary Laws And Requirements
Each state has its laws governing notary practices, including what types of documents can be notarized, ID requirements, and whether remote or electronic notarization is permitted. People often assume notary rules are the same everywhere, which can lead to mistakes. For instance, a document notarized remotely may be accepted in one state but rejected in another.
Before scheduling your appointment, it is advisable to take a few minutes to review your state’s notary requirements or confirm with the Las Vegas notary service that they are familiar with your state’s laws. This can prevent issues with rejected or disputed documents.
Assuming Notarization Makes A Document Legally Binding
Notarization only verifies the identity of the signer and their willingness to sign - nothing more. Many people wrongly believe that once a document is notarized, it becomes legally binding or enforceable. That is not the case.
A notarized document can still be invalid if it contains illegal terms, incorrect information, or if it hasn’t been prepared correctly. If your document has legal implications, it’s wise to have it reviewed by a legal professional in addition to having it notarized. Notaries are not lawyers and cannot offer legal advice or validation.
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Takeaway
Though you might think getting a document notarized is a small thing and easy to do, a small misstep can cause huge waves. For example, your document might get rejected, or worse, you could face legal complications. If you understand the dos and don’ts and what mistakes to avoid, you’ll be free from all the hassle.
Remember, in Las Vegas, notary service is not just about getting a stamp. You must ensure that your documents meet the legal standards and that you have everything you need.
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Reno Carson Messenger Service Inc. is Nevada’s oldest and largest family-owned and licensed legal messenger and process-serving company, in operation since 1981. We serve Northern Nevada, Southern Nevada, and the Lake Tahoe Basin, and extend our services into Northern California.
Our services include skip tracing, document management services, same-day messenger and courier services, eviction/lockouts, process serving, court filings, document retrieval, and notary services in Las Vegas.
We adhere to deadlines, believe in transparency, and comply with legal protocols, which has earned us a reputation among law firms and businesses.
Call us at 775-322-2424 if you need a notary or mobile notary service in Las Vegas!
