Understanding California Jurats: Why Some Documents Require Extra Care (And Why That’s a Good Thing)

One of the most common questions we hear from clients is:
“Why can’t you just stamp my document?”

It’s a great question — and today we’re pulling back the curtain to explain one of the most important (and misunderstood) parts of California notary law: the California Jurat.

At Seal of Approval Mobile Notary & Apostille Services, we believe transparency builds trust. So let’s walk through this in a simple, easy-to-understand way.

What Is a Jurat — and How Is It Different From an Acknowledgment?

In California, there are two main types of notarizations most people encounter:

1. Acknowledgments
An acknowledgment confirms that:

You are who you say you are
You signed the document willingly

Acknowledgments are flexible. California notaries are allowed to use out-of-state acknowledgment wording as long as it meets California standards.

2. Jurats (Very Different!)
A jurat does more than verify identity.

A jurat requires that:

You personally appear before the notary
You sign and date the document in front of the notary
You take an oath or affirmation, swearing that the contents of the document are true and correct

Because of this oath requirement, California jurats must follow very specific state-approved wording.

Why California Jurats Are So Strict

Here’s the key point many people don’t know:

👉 It is illegal for a California notary to notarize a jurat using out-of-state jurat wording.

That means if a document comes from another state and includes non-California jurat language, we cannot stamp it as-is.
Instead, we must:

Attach a California-compliant jurat
Administer the oath properly
Witness the signer sign and date in real time

This isn’t us being difficult — it’s us protecting you and following California law.

Why We Ask Clients to Complete (But Not Sign) Documents Ahead of Time

You may notice we often ask clients to:
✔ Fully complete the document in advance
❌ Not sign or date it until we arrive

This is a best practice, especially when there’s a chance the document requires a jurat.
If a jurat is involved, the law requires:

The signature to happen in front of the notary
The oath to be administered at that moment

This approach helps avoid delays, repeat appointments, or rejected documents.

Why This Matters for You

Clients who work with knowledgeable California notaries get their documents done correctly the first time
Clients who rush or use inexperienced notaries often face rejections, re-signing, or legal issues

A document notarized incorrectly may be rejected by courts, agencies, or international authorities, costing time, money, and peace of mind.

Our Commitment to Accuracy & Transparency

At Seal of Approval Mobile Notary & Apostille Services, we don’t cut corners — ever.

We take the time to:
✔ Review your document
✔ Identify whether it requires an acknowledgment or jurat
✔ Use California-compliant wording
✔ Administer oaths correctly
✔ Ensure your notarization is legally valid

This is part of why clients across Sacramento trust us for:

Mobile notary services
Apostille processing
Certified & sworn translations
Document courier services
Printing support
In-office notarizations in Downtown Sacramento

Need a Knowledgeable California Notary?

If you’re dealing with legal, court, immigration, or international documents, having a notary who understands California jurats is essential.

👉 Click “Schedule Your Appointment Here” on our website
OR
📞 Call or text 916-800-3970

Seal of Approval Mobile Notary & Apostille Services
Where accuracy, transparency, and California notary expertise come standard.

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Have Any Questions?

Give us a call, text, or send an email and we will get back to you ASAP! We are here to serve the Sacramento community in getting their important documents notarized by the best notaries and Apostille agents!