As the world has become a global village, so have the rules and regulations. These days, notaries must be registered in all states where they practice. The requirement for registration is because there are different laws regarding the practice of notarial services in different states.
There are three main types of notaries you are likely to encounter: electronic, remote, and mobile. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages.
Electronic notary
The electronic notary has become very popular among people who want to get their documents notarized remotely. Notarization involves using an electronic device to record a document’s signing and date. It can be done through email, online, or by phone.
The main advantage of electronic notarization is that it allows you to sign documents from any location with an internet connection. You don’t have to physically travel to an office or meet in person with a notary public which can be expensive and inconvenient. So, it saves time and money as there is no need to travel to a remote location and pay for accommodation and other expenses.
Another advantage of electronic notarization is that it offers a more secure method of signing documents than traditional methods. Electronic signature software encrypts all data before sending it over the internet, so only authorized parties can view it.
Remote notary
Remote notarization is a traditional method of signing documents. It involves a remote notary coming to your location to sign on your behalf.
A remote notary is someone who has completed their training and is authorized by the state to witness, certify or attest to the identity of parties in connection with certain transactions or proceedings before that state or country. A remote notary has complete control over the security of the signed document and can only sign after reviewing it.
Remote notary services are similar to electronic notarization. However, they use an independent third party who travels to your location for face-to-face meetings with your clients or witnesses at your request. Remote notaries have skills and expertise, making them well suited for client meetings, particularly when dealing with sensitive information or documents that need extra attention from local authorities.
Mobile notary services allow you to sign documents from anywhere using wireless technology such as Bluetooth.
The remote notary does not have to be present in front of the person whose document must be signed. They usually come with/equipment and software to record the signing and date of the signed document.
The advantage of remote notarization is that it is faster. It is also more convenient and more secure than traditional notarization. For example, if you need to sign a document in person, you must travel to a notary’s office. The process can be time-consuming and costly as well as inconvenient for you. However, with remote notarization, you can send your documents directly to the notary without making an appointment in person.
The disadvantages of remote notarization are that it is not always available or convenient for everyone. For example, if there is no internet connection at home or work, this option may not be available to you. Also, some jurisdictions do not allow citizens to use this method because they believe it reduces the public’s trust in the legal system.
Mobile notary
A mobile notary is a person who is authorized by law to perform notarial acts in your state or locality without having to attend in person. They are available worldwide, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Mobile notary service allows you to use your cell phone or tablet as a notary. You need an app on your device, and then you can make verifications by taking photos with your mobile device.
Mobile notarization is a hybrid of remote and virtual notary services. It allows you to sign documents from any location with an internet connection.
Mobile notaries can be found in some countries, including Canada and USA, but they are more common in Mexico and Central America.
Mobile Notary is similar to a remote notary in that both services allow people to submit documents and have them notarized without being present at their place of business. However, mobile notaries only provide mobile services, so no one else needs access to your phone line or computer.
The advantages of mobile notarization are that it is fast and convenient because most people have devices such as smartphones or tablets.
Also, it does not require special equipment or software other than what is already on your devices, such as an app.
The disadvantages of mobile notarization are that it requires internet connectivity which could be limited in certain areas due to lack of infrastructure or internet availability.
