Sealed Deals. Verified Authority.
In business, a contract is only as strong as the signature on it. We provide professional notarization services that verify not just the identity of the signer, but the integrity of the execution.
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Beyond the Signature
For critical business transactions, a simple signature isn’t enough. You need proof that the document was executed willingly and by the correct parties. While a standard notary checks an ID, a law firm notary understands the context of corporate authority.
At Saffold Law, we ensure your critical business documents are “self-authenticating” in court. A notarized signature is much harder to challenge later in a lawsuit claiming “I never signed that” or “I didn’t understand what I was signing.”
Common Notarization Pitfalls (Where Deals Fail)
A stamp on a page doesn’t make a document legal if the underlying details are wrong. We catch the errors that generic notaries miss:
1. The "Corporate Capacity" Error
If a CEO signs a contract personally instead of as “Jane Doe, CEO of XYZ Corp,” she might be personally liable for the debt. We ensure the signature block matches the legal entity structure perfectly.
2. The Wrong Certificate (Jurat vs. Acknowledgment)
Using the wrong notarial block can invalidate an affidavit.
- Acknowledgment: Verifies the signer identity (used for Deeds/Contracts).
- Jurat: Requires the signer to swear an oath that the contents are true (used for Affidavits). We know exactly which one your document needs.
3. Incomplete Witness Requirements
Some documents (like certain real estate deeds or wills) require credible witnesses in addition to the notary. If you show up to a bank, they often lack the staff or policy to provide witnesses. We handle this coordination.
4. Expired or Invalid ID
A lapsed driver’s license can render a notarization voidable. We conduct strict ID verification to ensure the transaction stands up to future audits.
Documents We Notarize
We handle the execution of high-stakes corporate instruments.
1. Formation & Governance Documents
When filing with the state or opening bank accounts, you often need certified execution of:
- Articles of Incorporation / Organization: Proving the entity was formed legally.
- Operating Agreements & Bylaws: Verifying the signatures of all partners and members.
- Corporate Resolutions: Certifying that the Board of Directors actually voted to approve a major action (like taking out a loan).
2. Commercial Contracts & Leases
High-value agreements often require notarization to be enforceable or recordable (Memorandum of Lease).
- Commercial Leases: Especially for long-term ground leases.
- Personal Guaranties: Landlords and lenders almost always require notarization to prevent a guarantor from denying their signature later.
3. Financial Instruments
- Promissory Notes: For private business loans.
- Security Agreements: Granting collateral for a debt (UCC filings).
4. Employment & Settlement Agreements
- Non-Compete & NDA: Adding weight to the enforceability of restrictive covenants.
- Severance & Release Agreements: Ensuring a former employee cannot claim they were coerced into signing away their rights to sue.
5. Statutory Forms
- Affidavits of Identity: Often required in mergers or acquisitions.
- Construction Lien Waivers: Essential for developers to prove contractors have been paid.
Why Notarize at a Law Firm?
Corporate Authority Verification
A generic notary verifies that “John Doe” is John Doe. We go a step further when needed: ensuring John Doe is actually the CEO or Authorized Signatory of the company he claims to represent.
Witness Availability
Many business documents require both a Notary AND separate witnesses. We can provide the necessary staff to serve as credible witnesses for your transaction.
Confidentiality
Unlike a shipping store or a bank lobby, our office offers a private, secure environment for executing sensitive contracts involving trade secrets or high-net-worth figures.
Our Process
1. The Setup
Bring your document and your government-issued ID. If the document requires witnesses, please let us know in advance.
2. The Verification
We confirm the identity of all signers and ensure they are not under duress.
3. The Execution
We apply the seal and complete the appropriate notarial certificate (Jurat or Acknowledgment) compliant with Texas law.
Execute with Confidence.
Ensure your business agreements stand up to scrutiny. Contact Saffold Law for professional corporate notarization.
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