WA Notary Jurats and Oaths 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What wording does a Washington notary use to administer an oath for a jurat?
- Do you promise this document is correct?
- Do you swear (or affirm) that the statements in this document are true to the best of your knowledge? (Correct answer)
- Do you acknowledge this document is yours?
- Do you certify this document for recording?
Correct answer: Do you swear (or affirm) that the statements in this document are true to the best of your knowledge?
The notary should ask the signer to swear or affirm that the contents of the document are true to the best of their knowledge and belief.
Question 2: Must a Washington notary verify the signer's identity when performing a jurat?
- No, jurats only require the oath
- Yes, the notary must verify identity for all notarial acts including jurats (Correct answer)
- Only if the document requires it
- Only for government documents
Correct answer: Yes, the notary must verify identity for all notarial acts including jurats
Identity verification is required for all notarial acts in Washington, including jurats, to ensure the person taking the oath is who they claim to be.
Question 3: Can a Washington notary perform a jurat for a document that has already been signed before the notary's presence?
- Yes, if the signer takes the oath
- No, a jurat requires the signer to sign in the notary's presence (Correct answer)
- Yes, if the notary witnesses the date of signing
- Yes, with a credible witness present
Correct answer: No, a jurat requires the signer to sign in the notary's presence
A jurat requires the document to be signed in the notary's presence; if already signed, the signer must re-sign before the notary.
Question 4: What is a 'subscribing witness' in Washington notary law?
- A person who signs a document as a witness on behalf of an absent signer (Correct answer)
- A person who takes an oath before the notary
- A person who verifies the notary's seal
- A person who files the document with the county
Correct answer: A person who signs a document as a witness on behalf of an absent signer
A subscribing witness signs a document to attest that they witnessed the principal signer execute the document.
Question 5: What penalty does Washington impose for willfully making a false oath before a notary?
- A civil fine only
- Perjury charges, which is a felony (Correct answer)
- Suspension of notary privileges
- A misdemeanor with a small fine
Correct answer: Perjury charges, which is a felony
Making a false oath before a notary in Washington constitutes perjury, which is a felony offense under Washington law.
Question 6: In Washington, can a notary administer an oath for a deposition?
- No, only court reporters may administer oaths for depositions
- Yes, Washington notaries are authorized to administer oaths for depositions (Correct answer)
- Only if a licensed attorney is present
- Only for federal court depositions
Correct answer: Yes, Washington notaries are authorized to administer oaths for depositions
Washington notaries have authority to administer oaths and affirmations, which includes oaths for depositions and other legal proceedings.
WA Notary Jurats and Oaths 2
What wording does a Washington notary use to administer an oath for a jurat?