Where do I get a document stamped with a Medallion Signature Guarantee?

Where do I get a document stamped with a Medallion Signature Guarantee?

Today I received a call from one of my regular clients who was asking if I could provide a Medallion Signature Guarantee stamp on a document for him. It’s fairly common for people to assume that because a “stamp” is required, they should turn to a Notary Public for help. But there are significant differences between the two processes…

Notario Publico?

Notario Publico?

A Notary Public in California is forbidden from using the term “Notario Publico” or “Notario” in describing their services. In some countries the services of a Notary Public are synonymous with that of an Attorney – someone who can render legal advice. However, in California a Notary Public is not by default an attorney, and must be careful never to render legal advice. While it is possible that your attorney is a Notary Public, you should not assume this to be the case.

If a Notary Public in California is caught advertising using either Notario Publico or Notario, they are subject to having their Notary Public Commission revoked for 1 year on the first offense and permanently revoked upon the second offense. Because the consequences are so severe, you should never see a Notary Public in California using these terms.

This is not to say that the Notary Public can not notarize documents in Spanish or a language other than English. There is no problem with a California Notary Public notarizing a document written completely in Spanish or any other language. Nor does the Notary Public need to read or understand the language the document is written in. You may present a document written in any language to California Notary Public for notarization, provided that you can truthfully indicate to the notary that the document is complete.

If you ever have questions about the legality of any action or advice given by a California Notary Public you should contact the Secretary of State Department who is responsible for the commissioning of all Notary Publics. The Secretary of State  maintains an informational website at http://www.sos.ca.gov/business/notary/

Even Attorney’s Need A Notary Sometimes

Even Attorney’s Need A Notary Sometimes

Today was a busy day – my phone kept  ringing off the hook with folks looking for a notary to come help them with their documents. It’s like that a lot in the mobile notary business – when it rains it pours! I’m not sure why this is – perhaps everyone was trying to finish up all their outstanding business before heading out to enjoy the 4th of July Holiday weekend?  But what ever the case – I always try to help as many clients as I possibly can.