Stop Divorce Paper Delays: Mobile Notary & RON Solutions

Navigating Divorce: Why Notarizing Your Paperwork Is Essential

Divorce is rarely easy, but managing the required paperwork doesn't have to add unnecessary stress. Among the many legal requirements, notarization is a critical step that ensures your documents are legally sound and accepted by the court.

If you are going through a separation or divorce, understanding the role of a notary can save you time, prevent delays, and provide confidence that your agreements are properly executed.

Why is Notarization Required for Divorce Documents?

Notarization serves a fundamental purpose in the legal world: to confirm identity and intent. When a Notary Public places their seal on a document, they are verifying three essential things:

1. Identity: That the person signing the document is truly who they claim to be.

2. Voluntary Signing: That the person is signing willingly and is not being coerced.

3. Awareness: That the person is signing with a clear mind and understands they are executing a legal document.

For divorce papers, this process is crucial because it ensures the integrity of the most important agreement: your future settlement.

Which Divorce Documents Need a Notary Seal?

While requirements vary by state and jurisdiction, the following documents are most commonly required to be notarized:

• Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) / Divorce Agreement: This is the foundational document that outlines the division of assets, property, debts, child custody, visitation, and support. It must be notarized to prove both parties willingly agreed to the terms.

• Affidavits and Sworn Statements: Any document where a party is swearing or affirming the truth of specific facts (such as financial disclosure affidavits or custody statements) must be notarized.

• Deeds and Property Transfer Documents: If you are transferring ownership of real estate (e.g., the marital home) from one spouse to the other, the deed and related closing paperwork will require notarization.

The Notarization Process

Getting your divorce papers notarized is straightforward, especially if you come prepared:

1. Bring Valid ID: You must present a current, government-issued photo ID (like a Driver's License or Passport). Expired IDs are never acceptable.

2. Keep Documents Unsigned: Do not sign the document beforehand! The notary must witness your signature in real-time, whether in person or remotely.

3. Sign in Front of the Notary: Once the notary verifies your identity, you will sign the document. The notary will then complete the notarial certificate, apply their official stamp or seal, and record the transaction in their journal.

Making Notarization Simple: Mobile and Remote Options

In the past, getting a divorce document notarized meant coordinating schedules and driving to a bank or notary office—often an emotional difficulty when dealing with a complex separation.

Today, however, the process is dramatically simplified:

• Mobile Notary: A commissioned notary travels directly to your location, whether it's your home, office, or attorney's office, on your schedule.

• Remote Online Notary (RON): This is the ultimate convenience. Using a secure video platform, you can have your documents notarized online from anywhere in the world (as long as the legal requirements of the document are met). This is particularly useful for ex-spouses who live in different cities or states.

Using a professional notary service that offers both mobile and remote options ensures that this necessary legal step is handled accurately, quickly, and with minimal personal inconvenience during a difficult time.

Disclaimer: Everson Rose Financial & Notary Service is not a law firm and cannot provide legal advice. Always consult with a licensed attorney regarding the specifics of your divorce papers and legal requirements.