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Notarial Acts/Documentation

A client prints a PDF contract that they previously 'e-signed' using DocuSign. They bring this printed paper to a California notary and ask for an Acknowledgment on the printed e-signature. Can the notary proceed?

A

Yes, provided the client logs into DocuSign to prove they made the signature.

B

No, a California notary cannot acknowledge an electronic signature that has been printed on paper; the document must bear an original wet signature.

C

No, unless the notary holds a special 'Electronic Notary' endorsement.

D

Yes, electronic signatures carry the exact same legal weight as wet signatures in California.

Correct Answer

B. No, a California notary cannot acknowledge an electronic signature that has been printed on paper; the document must bear an original wet signature.

AI Explanation

Printed Electronic Signatures. While California recognizes electronic signatures for commerce, a traditional California notary public cannot take an acknowledgment of an electronic signature printed on paper. To perform a traditional physical notarization, the notary must see an original, physical 'wet' ink signature on the document.

Notarial Acts/Documentation Question #215
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