How should a notary handle an out-of-state document when the signer is in Connecticut?

• A. Apply Connecticut notarial rules; ensure compliance with CT law for the act performed in CT.
• B. Apply the signer’s home state rules regardless of location.
• C. Do not notarize until the document is in the signer’s home state.
• D. Any state rule may be used as long as the notary approves.

Answer: (A)

Notarial acts are governed by the state where the act is performed. Here, the signer is in Connecticut and the notarization occurs in Connecticut, so Connecticut notarial law applies to the act. The fact that the document originated out of state doesn’t change the jurisdiction for the notarization itself. The notary should verify the signer’s identity and complete the certificate according to Connecticut requirements, even if the document will be used elsewhere. The document’s home-state rules don’t control the Connecticut act, and asking to wait until the document is in the signer’s home state or applying any other state’s rules would not be appropriate.