Understanding Remote Notarizations for Connecticut Legal Matters

 Posted on November 09, 2020 in Estate Planning

COVID-19 has dramatically impacted people’s lives throughout the United States and across the world. From employment concerns, to childcare, to legal matters, almost every facet of our lives has been affected. Finding a way to work around COVID-related restrictions has taken a good deal of ingenuity and flexibility. Many people are being asked to adapt to new ways of handling business and legal matters. Fortunately, Connecticut has made estate planning, real estate, and other legal procedures slightly easier to accomplish by allowing remote notarizations.

Notarizations May Be Conducted Virtually

Having a document notarized ensures that the document is not fraudulent or falsified. Traditionally, having a document notarized involves going to a notary, or an individual with special permission to act as a witness, confirming your identity, and then signing the document in front of him or her. However, stay-at-home orders and social distancing needs have made it difficult to have things notarized in the traditional capacity. Fortunately, Connecticut is allowing documents to be notarized virtually depending on the type of legal matter.

Requirements for Virtual Notarizations

If you need to have a document notarized, you may be able to do so without even leaving your home. The conditions of remote notarization are as follows:

• The notarization process will take place using an electronic device capable of video calling. This may be a computer, cell phone, tablet or another device.

• The signatory, or individual seeking notarization, will present evidence of his or her identity via the video call to the notary. Typically, the signatory is required to present two current forms of identification, including one that was issued by a federal or state government agency.

• The notarial act is recorded and held by the Notary Public or Commissioner for at least 10 years.

• The signatory must be physically located in Connecticut during the notarization.

Executive Order 7ZZ allows a Connecticut attorney to remotely administer a self-proving affidavit at the end of a last will and testament. Remote witnessing may also be available for will signings. Witness requirements for estate planning documents other than a will have been waived.

Contact a Greenwich, CT Real Estate Lawyer

If you have questions or concerns related to real estate, personal injury claims, estate planning, or business law, turn to the trusted professionals at Ivey, Barnum & O'Mara, LLC. Our team of experienced lawyers have diverse skill sets and are ready to provide the dependable legal support you need. Call our office today at 203-661-6000 to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your needs with an accomplished Metro New York estate planning attorney from our firm.

Source:
https://www.nationalnotary.org/knowledge-center/news/law-updates/ct-executive-order-no-7k-2020