In New York’s electronic-notarization framework, principal is the defined term for the human being at the center of the notarial act. Executive Law §135-c(1)(g) and 19 NYCRR §182.2 describe the principal as the individual whose signature appears on the record, who takes an oath or affirmation before the notary, or whose signature follows such an oath or affirmation. Part 182 also expands the practical meaning for electronic-notarial purposes to include the individual intending to engage in those acts.
This definition matters because remote and electronic provisions use “principal” repeatedly instead of repeating “signer,” “affiant,” or “acknowledger” each time. It is the umbrella term that ties together execution, oath-taking, and appearance in the electronic setting.
Practical note: Principal here is a Part 182 identity word. It is not the same as “principal” meaning main party in agency law.
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