Understanding Notarial Acts

Understanding the different types of notarial acts is crucial when notarizing documents. Whether you're dealing with legal papers, real estate transactions, or other important documents, knowing the distinctions between jurats, acknowledgments, and copy certifications can help ensure everything is handled correctly and efficiently. At Signature Line Notary Services, we prioritize your needs with expertise and efficiency, consistently earning five-star reviews for our exceptional service.

What is a Jurat?

A jurat is a notarial act where the signer swears or affirms that the contents of a document are true and correct. The notary public must witness the signing of the document and then administer an oath or affirmation to the signer. This process includes:

1. Personal Appearance: The signer must personally appear before the notary.

2. Verification: The notary confirms the identity of the signer through acceptable identification.

3. Oath or Affirmation: The signer swears or affirms the truthfulness of the document's contents.

4. Signature: The signer signs the document in the presence of the notary.

Jurats are commonly used for affidavits and depositions. The notary public will then complete a notarial certificate stating that the oath or affirmation was administered.

What is Acknowledgment?

An acknowledgment is another type of notarial act where the signer declares that they have willingly signed a document for its stated purpose. Unlike jurats, acknowledgments do not require the signer to swear or affirm the truthfulness of the document's contents. The process involves:

1. Personal  Appearance: The signer must appear before the notary.

2. Verification: The notary verifies the signer's identity.

3. Voluntary Signing: The signer acknowledges that they signed the document voluntarily and for the purposes stated within it.

Acknowledgments are frequently used in real estate transactions, power of attorney documents, and other legal agreements. The notary then completes a certificate of acknowledgment, confirming that the signer appeared before them and acknowledged executing the document.

What is a Copy Certification?

Copy certification is a notarial act where a notary public attests that a copy of a document is a true and accurate reproduction of the original. In Florida, notaries can certify copies of certain types of documents, such as:

1. Personal Records: Documents like diplomas, transcripts, or utility bills.

2. Non-Government Records: Documents that are not public records or vital records (e.g., birth certificates or marriage licenses).

The process for copy certification in Florida requires:

1. Original Document: The notary must be presented with the original document.

2. Copy: The notary makes or supervises the making of the copy.

3. Verification: The notary compares the copy to the original to ensure its accuracy.

4. Certification: The notary completes a certificate of copy certification, confirming that the copy is true and accurate.

Signature Line Notary Services: Your Trusted Partner

At Signature Line Notary Services, we prioritize, know, and efficiently handle your documents. Our team is well-versed in all aspects of notarial acts, ensuring that your jurats, acknowledgments, and copy certifications are completed accurately and promptly. Our commitment to excellence has earned us continuous five-star reviews from our satisfied clients.

Whether you need a jurat for an affidavit, an acknowledgment for a real estate document, or a copy certification for personal records, we are here to assist you. Trust Signature Line Notary Services for all your notarial needs and experience the difference that our expertise and dedication can make.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment and see why we are the top choice for notary services in Pinellas & Hillsborough Counties and beyond.

by Lisa Sweeting

© 2026 by Lisa Sweeting - all rights reserved