Signing Tips

​Tips on Signing a Document
Whether you're buying a home or settling a lawsuit, it's essential that you know how to sign a document. Signing your name to a binding document unknowingly or without an understanding of the document's contents and intent can be a costly mistake. If you are inexperienced at signing legal documents, enlist the help of a knowledgeable family member, close friend or legal counsel to assist you in making well-informed choices about the types of legal documents you sign.

1. Read and re-read the document. You don't need to digest the entire contents in one reading; take your time. If you're asked to sign the document within a specified period, though, ensure you set aside enough time to carefully review the document before you sign. Don't be reluctant to ask for assistance in understanding the words or language used in the document. If you need someone to interpret the document's language, ask someone who understands your position or someone who doesn't have a vested interest in the property or issue addressed by the document.
2. Review every page of the document. If you need to make corrections, additions or deletions from the document text, make the necessary notations and sign your initials next to the change or in the margin next to the change.
3. Look at the last page of the document, which is the signature page. Determine whether you need someone to witness your signature. If so, ask someone to observe you when you sign the document. The witness doesn't necessarily have to read the document because her signature merely attests to the fact you signed the document. If the document requires a #notarized signature, wait until you're in the presence of a notary before you put your signature on the document.  You can search online directories   to find a #notary and take your identification with you. A #notary public's signature and stamp attest you are the person who signed the document, hence the requirement that you produce documentation. Many legal documents require #notarized signatures.
4. Use dark ink to sign legal documents. If it's necessary to distinguish between the original signed legal document and copies, use blue ink. Otherwise, black ink is acceptable, but refrain from using red ink or any other unusual color unless it's unavoidable and no other color ink is available.  Pencil is not favored because it can smudge and be erased, but a signature made with a pencil is equally valid as a signature in pen.
5. It’s always a good Idea to request a fully signed document. That is, if the document is signed by another party, which is generally the case, request a copy of the signed document for your personal files.

If you decide to utilize your document to be Notarized, please be aware of the notary disclaimer.
Notary Disclaimers: A notary public or other officer completing the notary certificate verifies only the identity of the individual who signed the document to which this certificate is attached, and not the truthfulness, accuracy, or validity of that document.