The signer already signed before I arrived. What should I do?

Short answer

It depends on the act. For an acknowledgment, the signer can usually acknowledge the existing signature. For a jurat, the signer generally must sign again in your presence.

Full explanation

Identify the act first by reading the certificate wording. "Acknowledged before me" means the signer may acknowledge a pre-existing signature after appearing and being identified. "Subscribed and sworn to before me" means the signature must be made in your presence and an oath administered — so the signer signs again, or a fresh page is used if the document permits.

Example

A borrower pre-signed an affidavit. The notary explains that the jurat requires signing in their presence, and the borrower re-signs the document while the notary watches, then takes the oath.

Common mistake to avoid

Never complete a jurat certificate for a signature you did not witness being made.

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