I have a signer insisting that I print "LS" over my stamp. I explained that the "LS" is for notaries who use an embossing seal to notate where the seal is located and I use an ink seal. The signer is insisting I write "LS" over my seal anyway. How should I handle this? — T.D., Hawaii
This request is not necessarily illegal, but we’d recommend you write “L.S.” to the side of your seal impression and not within it. “L.S.” is the abbreviation of the term Locus Sigilli, which means “place of the seal.” It appears on some documents to indicate where the Notary’s seal should be placed. The presence of “L.S.” on a certificate doesn’t require the seal be placed over the words, only near it. We’re concerned that a receiving agency could reject the notarization if the insertion of “L.S.” within the seal obscured or rendered illegible the information in it.
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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