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Why do I Need a Notarization?
A notarization is an important anti-fraud measure that ensures that a document is legally binding for all parties. When a document is notarized, a notary public verifies the identity of the signers, confirms that they are signing voluntarily, and witnesses the signing of the document. This process provides trust and security and makes it more difficult to challenge the document in a court of law. By notarizing your documents, you can protect yourself as a signer.
What Documents Can You Notarize?
Powers of attorney
Wills and Living Wills
Trusts and Living Trusts
Deeds
Affidavits
Student Loan Promissory Notes
Diplomas and Transcripts for Use Outside of the United States
True Copies of Passports
First Light can also assist with I-9 form completion as an authorized representative
First Light Notary also offers Notarization and Document Delivery to Foreign Embassies in Washington, D.C. - For Visa applications and other purposes
Are There Different Types of Notarizations?
Yes, there are! Here are the different types of notarial acts:
Acknowledgement - This is an acknowledgment that an individual is who they say they are and that they signed the document voluntarily. These are often included on a document when valuable assets are involved, such as a deeds, mortgages and trusts, and add an additional safeguard against fraud. The signature does not need to be in the presence of the notary, but ID verification is required.
Jurat - A jurat is an oath or affirmation that the contents of a document are true and correct, under the penalty of perjury. Jurats are typically included on legal documents such as affidavits and depositions. Documents that include jurats must be signed in front of a notary, and the signer must also take a verbal oath or affirmation.
Oath or Affirmation - Sometimes, a document may not include a jurat but may still require the signer to take an oath or an affirmation. An oath is a pledge to a higher power and an affirmation is on the signer's personal honor.
Copy Certification - This certifies that a document is complete and exact to the original. Diplomas, driver's license, lease agreements, contracts, vehicle titles, social security cards, medical records and bills of sale.
What is Mobile Notarization?
First Light Notary will come to you if you live in the Northern Virginia Area to notarize your documents!
Check out our Book an Appointment tab to schedule an appointment.
What is Remote Online Notarization?
Remote online notarizations (RON) allow you to legally notarize documents using the internet. Using secure video conferencing technology, we will verify your identity, witness your signature, and apply our electronic seal to your document. This process provides a convenient and efficient alternative to traditional in-person notarizations, especially for those who are unable to meet face-to-face or need notarization quickly.
What is Involved in Remote Online Notarization?
Identity Verification
One of the first steps in Remote Online Notarization is Identity verification. Identity verification is used to ensure that the person signing the document is truly who they say they are. This protects you and all parties involved by preventing fraud and ensuring the integrity of the notarization. You will need to verify yourself using a government-issued photo ID with Pactima's application before the notarization can begin. By confirming your identity, we ensure that your document is legally valid.
Knowledge-Based Authentication
Another required step before a Remote Notarization can begin is a Knowledge-Based Authentication test. Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) is a security measure that helps ensure that only you can access and sign your documents. By answering personal questions that only you would know, KBA adds an extra layer of protection against fraud. This process helps verify your identity with confidence, making your notarizations secure and trustworthy.
Digital Certificates
A digital certificate is like a virtual ID card that securely links a notary to the notarization they perform. It ensures that the notary’s electronic signature on your document is authentic and cannot be tampered with. This added layer of security protects the integrity of your document, making it legally binding and giving you confidence that your important paperwork is safe and secure.
Virtual Private Networks
At First Light Notary, we prioritize the security and confidentiality of your information. To protect your data during remote online notarizations and other online interactions, we use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service. This ensures that your communications with us are encrypted and secure, which reduces the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches. Your privacy and the security of your documents are our top priorities.
Secure Document Storage
First Light Notary uses the platform Pactima to ensure secure document storage for 10 years. Storing notarized documents ensures that there is a secure, accessible record of your transaction if it’s ever needed. This helps protect your legal rights and provides peace of mind, knowing that your important documents can be retrieved and verified if any questions or disputes arise later on.
Payment
First Light Notary accepts all major credit/debit cards, cash, checks and money orders.
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