How is a notary's seal affixed to a document?

A notary's seal must be stamped or embossed onto a document in a clear and legible manner to ensure its authenticity and to meet legal requirements. The seal serves as a formal endorsement of the notarial act and signifies that the notary has verified the identity of the signer, witnessed the signing of the document, and performed the necessary duties before executing the notarial act.

Using a stamped or embossed seal provides a consistent and official appearance, which helps prevent fraud and enhances the integrity of the notarized document. A clear and legible impression is crucial; if the seal is unclear, it could create doubts about the validity of the notarization and might lead to disputes regarding the document's authenticity.

Handwriting the seal, printing it from a computer, or considering it optional would not satisfy the legal standards set forth in California law for notarial acts, which require that the seal be an official representation and consistent in its format. This ensures that all notarizations adhere to a uniform standard, promoting trust and reliability in the notarial process.