An affidavit is based upon either the personal knowledge of the affiant or his or her information and belief. Personal knowledge is the recognition of particular facts by either direct observation or experience. Information and belief is what the affiant feels he or she can state as true, although not based on firsthand knowledge.
An affidavit is a written statement of facts voluntarily made by an affiant under an oath or affirmation administered by a person authorized to do so by law.
To notarize a document, the signers need to provide proper identification so the notary can confirm the identity of all signers. Once identities have been verified, the notary leads each signer through the document and observes them making each required signature, initial or other mark.
To qualify for appointment as a notary public in Maine, the applicant must: Be at least 18 years of age. Be a resident of Maine or a resident of another state with a business or place of employment in the State of Maine. Be able to pass an examination administered by the Secretary of State.
Identify someone who has the legal authority to certify documents. This often includes notaries public, government officials, lawyers, or other designated personnel.
U.S. embassies and consulates provide notarial services like a notary public in the United States. A notary is someone who witnesses you sign a document. In countries that are part of the Hague Convention, get your document notarized by a local notary.
One of the most common mistakes that notaries make is not printing or signing their name exactly as it appears on their notary commission.
Online notary is legal in Maine under Title 4 §1915 of the Maine Revised Statutes. Maine law also recognizes and accepts online notarizations performed by out-of-state notaries under their state rules. (See Title 4 § 1911 of the Maine Revised Statutes.)
92.4(b) provides that these services may be performed for any person regardless of nationality so long as the document in connection with which the notarial/authentication service is required is for use within the jurisdiction of the United States.
However, some businesses that need notaries, such as law firms, title companies, and banks, rely on them constantly. Think about it: any organization handling important agreements, financial transactions, or legal documents will likely have a steady need for a notary public's expertise.
