Hotline Tip: Can I notarize a document describing a new invention?

A customer came in with a handwritten document stating that he had created a new product and containing a short, detailed description of the item
he created. He asked to have the document notarized. Am I authorized to do so? — C.N., Spokane, WA

Yes, you can certainly notarize this document. In order to notarize such a document you must have three elements present:

• The Statement: The customer is making a statement regarding a new product in this situation, but it really is not the concern of the Notary to go into the detail of the customer’s statement.
• The Signature: The customer must provide his signature.
• The Certificate: You need a notarial certificate such as an acknowledgment or jurat to accompany the document. With handwritten statements, the notarial certificate element is what is often missing. If that is the case, simply ask the customer whether they would like an acknowledgment or jurat, and then attach whichever certificate the customer chooses. Keep in mind that the decision over which type of certificate to use must always come from the signer, not the Notary.

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