There are many documents that come with creating an estate plan in New York. In order to ensure they legally binding, you must get them notarized or witnessed by another person. However, due to the spread of the Coronavirus and social distancing practices, this can be difficult to accomplish. While this is true, it is not impossible. Continue reading to learn more about how you can notarize documents and contact an experienced New York estate planning attorney to guide you through the process of creating an estate plan.
How Do I Notarize a Document?
In order for a document to be notarized, you are required to physically appear before the notary public or witnesses. As a result of the Coronavirus, people are adhering to stay-at-home orders in New York and many businesses are temporarily closing. This can make it challenging to notarize a document. Some states have issued regulations that allow remote online notarization, but there are other creative ways that this can be accomplished as well.
Documents can be witnesses or notarized between different parties through what is known as “window-separated signings.” This is recommended by the National Notary Association during this time. Window-separated signings can take place in various meeting locations, such as a parking lot, as long as all parties can keep a window between them while the signings take place. During this time, the most important rule is for them to be able to communicate through signs and sound. The following should also be kept in mind:
- Notaries must follow all federal, state, and local guidelines for social distancing, health protection, and sanitization
- The signer must provide their identification to the Notary to view and inspect. It must be possessed by the Notary, not simply viewed through the window.
When the documents are signed, they should be exchanged between parties without coming near one another or touching. For example, they can be left somewhere, such as the hood of a car, and staying six feet away from one another at all times while retrieving the documents. After the notary is finished and documents are exchanged, it is crucial to wash your hands and use hand sanitizer.
Contact our Firm
If you or a loved one needs assistance creating an estate plan and wish to speak with an experienced attorney, contact the Law Office of Andres D. Gil, PLLC today.