Can a Notary in California notarize a signature that was made 5 months ago? — R.C., California
Yes and no. It depends on what type of notarization the signer is requesting. If it is an acknowledgment, you could notarize the signature that was signed five months ago. In this case, the signer simply would acknowledge to you that they signed the document willingly and knowingly. However, if it was a jurat, then the document must be signed again in your presence, and the new signature must be dated for the date you completed the jurat.
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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