How to Execute a Legal Document
Legal documents are executed in a variety of different ways. The manner in which a legal document is executed depends both on the underlying purpose for it as well as the law that applies to the matters addressed by the content. A legal document is effective only if it properly is executed.
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Instructions
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Consult with the applicable law in your state regarding the particular document to be executed. For example, if you are signing a divorce petition, most states require that this document be verified. Verified means that the document is signed on your oath in front of a notary public. If you are executing a power of attorney, the document is signed in front of a notary public but not under oath.
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Review the document thoroughly. You literally do need to read the fine print to make certain that the content of the document is consistent with your understanding of what is to be contained in it.
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Arrange to sign the document in front of a notary or witnesses as required by law or the circumstances giving rise to the execution of the document.
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Consider executing multiple original copies of the legal document if more than one party is involved in the matter. Ideally, all parties maintain an original, signed copy of any legal document.
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Tips & Warnings
Set aside time to review the legal document in advance of execution.
Do not read the legal document for the first time at the time scheduled for executing it.
Necessary changes are easier to make at a point in time before the scheduled signing.
Legal documents are complex in many instances. Therefore, you may be best served by having an attorney review any legal document before you sign.
