How do I verify a notary and other documents?

[Zigner]

Photoshop cannot mimic a raised notary seal at all. I don't see it working to mimic a non-raised one either the way that the ink prints. After all, a notary seal is nothing like a letterhead or even a photograph.

In New York, a notary isn't required to stamp or seal a document. They can simply write the appropriate language below their signature.
In my state (California), notaries must use photographically (i.e. photocopy) reproducible stamps.

ETA: The OP can get enough information to verify if the notary notarized the document by starting at the link I provided.

 

[LdiJ]

In New York, a notary isn't required to stamp or seal a document. They can simply write the appropriate language below their signature.
In my state (California), notaries must use photographically (i.e. photocopy) reproducible stamps.

A seal is not absolutely required for me either. However in this instance the op indicated that there was a seal. Hence my discussion regarding a seal.

ETA: The OP can get enough information to verify if the notary notarized the document by starting at the link I provided.

Of course he can. I never challenged that.

 

[adjusterjack]

When the OP is gone and the responders argue with each other, it's time for a joke.

 

[Zigner]

A seal is not absolutely required for me either. However in this instance the op indicated that there was a seal. Hence my discussion regarding a seal.

I'd bet that the OP's colloquial use of "seal" really means something different. I suspect most people I notarize for who are not "in the know" would call my stamp a "seal."

 

[STEPHAN]

Photoshop cannot mimic a raised notary seal at all.

We don't use that in FL—only a stamp.

 

[quincy]

We don't use that in FL—only a stamp.

Most notaries in Michigan use an inked stamp. The embossed seals can be used but are not required. Documents with embossed seals can be photocopied but the notary cannot use an embossed seal alone when the document is to be photocopied if a photocopy renders the seal illegible.

 

[LdiJ]

Most notaries in Michigan use an inked stamp. The embossed seals can be used but are not required. Documents with embossed seals can be photocopied but the notary cannot use an embossed seal alone when the document is to be photocopied if a photocopy renders the seal illegible.

It works the same way here. However, whether or not we used the embosser often depends on the requirements of the person/organization issuing the document we are notarizing. Some definitely want the embossed seal. Others definitely want the inked stamp (particularly if a document is going to travel digitally). Many don't care either way.

 

[quincy]

For adam582’s benefit, here is a link to general information on defamation, which he needs to seriously consider if he intends to do anything with the documents found in the former employee’s desk drawer:

https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/defamation

Damages awarded in defamation cases can be extremely high (see for examples the recent New York cases against Giuliani and Trump) so adam582 should handle very carefully the reputation of the former employee. adam582’s best course of action is probably to divorce himself entirely from any action at all except to possibly turn over what he found to proper authorities. adam582 should avoid investigating the documents and/or the employee him/herself.

 

[Foamback]

When the OP is gone and the responders argue with each other…….

That only happens here. Everyone on FB and TheLaw stays on topic and no internecine bickering about minutia.

Some places are a tight ship