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How to Notarize Your Divorce Papers

On Behalf of | Jan 31, 2020 | Divorce

Is Notarization Necessary for A Divorce?

Notarization is usually necessary for some divorce forms. Numerous petitions and motions just need you to sign a certification page confirming that all you have stated in the paperwork is true. However, financial documents typically require a notary to verify that it is indeed your signature on the form. A notary public is legally liable if they fail to verify your identity and another person signs documents alleging to be you.

Here, we take a look at how to notarize your divorce papers. For more information, don’t hesitate to contact a Tacoma Divorce Attorney from the Alliance Law Group.

How to Notarize Your Divorce Papers

Follow the steps below to have your divorce paperwork notarized:

Step 1: Review Your Divorce Papers

Go through your divorce papers, and ensure you have not left any parts blank apart from the section for your signature. Certain sections might not apply to you, like those requesting you to identify your kids when you’re not a parent. For such areas, write not applicable (N/A). The notary public will want to confirm that nobody else will add details to the form after he or she has signed it.

Step 2: Gather Proof of Your Identity

Some notaries ask for multiple forms of identification, particularly if neither contains a picture. Acceptable identification typically includes a driver’s license, passport, job ID, or school ID. It should have been issued recently and possess your signature.

Step 3: Locate a Notary

You can find a notary at a bank, law office, courthouse, real estate firm, or insurance company. Call ahead of time to inquire about the cost of notarizing divorce papers. Notaries generally charge clients a nominal fee and may require them to schedule appointments in advance. Courthouse staff members usually offer the service free of charge, but you may need to wait in line for long.

Step 4: Show Up Before the Notary Public with Your Completed Divorce Papers and ID

The notary might ask you several questions to verify whether your identity, particularly if your ID doesn’t have a photo. After that, you’ll need to sign the form in front of the notary, who will compare the sign with that on your ID. Finally, he or she will notarize the document.

What Divorce Documents Require Notarization?

In divorce cases, some forms need notarization, but others don’t. In general, it all comes down to the gravity of the case if somebody should falsify your signature. A notary confirms your identity and ensures you know what you are signing. Additionally, notarization is dependent on individual state regulations. If you’re uncertain, court staff can offer you advice and even notarize your documents too. Here are some of the documents that might require notarization:

1.      Divorce Complaint, Petition, and Answer

All divorces start with filing a divorce complaint or petition. The spouse that’s filing serves the petition or document on the other spouse, who then files an answer in response.

2.      Financial Affidavits

The majority of state courts need spouses to submit financial affidavits during the early stages of the proceedings. They showcase:

  • assets
  • debts
  • individual incomes
  • budgetary needs

3.      Pendente Lite Motions

Divorcing couples frequently file pendente lite motions right after filing for divorce. The motions request the court to enter temporary orders until the marriage dissolution is final.

If you have any questions about notarizing divorce papers, please call the Alliance Law Group at 253-300-2055 to consult a Tacoma divorce attorney.