Notarizing for Family in Florida: Blood is Thicker Than...Notary Stamps?
So, you've got a super important document that needs notarizing, and your trusty neighbor, Big Earl (bless his heart), just happens to be a Florida Notary Public. Perfect, right? Well, hold your horses (or, you know, flamingos...it's Florida) because things might be a little trickier than you think when it comes to family notarization.
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| Can Family Notarize For Family In Florida |
The Law Lays Down the Law (and Sometimes Doesn't)
Florida law is pretty clear on one thing: a notary public absolutely cannot notarize a document for their spouse, child, parent, or in-law. Seems straightforward enough, but here's the thing: the law gets a little fuzzy with more distant relatives. Can your eccentric Aunt Mildred, the queen of couponing and conspiracy theories, whip out her notary stamp for your latest business venture? Technically, the law doesn't say no.
But here's the kicker: A notary's job is to be an impartial witness. Imagine Big Earl notarizing your super secret invention for a revolutionary spatula that flips pancakes both sides at once. Suddenly, the pressure is on to approve this life-changing spatula, right? Not exactly the picture of unbiased officiating.
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When in Doubt, Don't Be a Turkey (or Get Your Document Rejected)
While Aunt Mildred might be able to legally notarize your will (assuming it doesn't leave everything to her vast porcelain cat collection), it's generally best to avoid this potential family feud fuel altogether. Here's why:
- Who wants drama? Family gatherings are stressful enough without Aunt Mildred questioning your sanity over that spatula patent.
- Rejection is rough. If there's even a hint of impropriety, your document could be rejected, causing delays and frustration.
- There's a whole world of notaries out there! Seriously, Florida has more notaries than gators (probably). Finding a neutral third party shouldn't be an issue.
So, the punchline? Play it safe. Skip the potential family squabbles and find a non-related notary to witness your important documents.
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FAQs for the Notary-Needy
How to find a notary public? Many banks, UPS stores, and courthouses offer notary services. A quick Google search can also point you in the right direction.
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How much does a notary charge? Fees vary, but typically range from $5 to $15 per signature.
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What do I need to bring to get something notarized? A valid ID for yourself and anyone signing the document, and of course, the document itself!
Can I get something notarized online? Not yet, but some states are exploring this option. For now, it's the old-fashioned pen-and-paper method.
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How long is a notarization valid? In Florida, a notarization is generally valid for six years.
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