Clerk of Courts

Notary Rules

Memorandum to Newly Commissioned Notaries Public

When notarizing motor vehicle and/or watercraft titles, it is important that all blanks on the assignment and/or application are completed by the seller or buyer prior to affixing your notary seal and signature. The back of the title contains two separate documents. You need to ensure the completion of the section dealing with the individual whose signature you are notarizing. Failure to do so could result in you becoming part of a lawsuit and/or criminal activity. The assignments and applications are sworn affidavits of the person signing in your presence and all blank areas must contain the proper information or indication that this area is not applicable. You could unknowingly become an accomplice in aiding and abetting title fraud, tax fraud and/or odometer fraud by notarizing an incomplete affidavit.
You should never allow another person to sign for the buyer or seller unless they have an authorized Power of Attorney. Spouses are not permitted to sign for each other without a notarized Power of Attorney. Powers of Attorney are to be attached to the assignment and become part of the evidence retained by the Clerk of Courts.