What defines a Certified Copy?

A certified copy is specifically defined as a copy of a document that has been attested to be a true and accurate representation of the original document by a public official, typically a notary public or a clerk of court. This certification process adds credibility and legal validity to the copy, making it acceptable for formal purposes where the authenticity of the document needs to be verified.

This means that certified copies are often used in legal, governmental, or institutional contexts where proof of the original document is required. The actions of the public official are crucial because they provide reassurance to the receiving party that the copy is not merely a photocopy but has been verified for its accuracy against the original document.

Other options, while they may describe types of documents or processes, do not capture the essence of what makes a certified copy specifically. For instance, a digital signature or a digital version of a notarized document might be relevant to modern documentation practices, but they do not encompass the formal verification process involved with certified copies. Similarly, a bill of sale is a specific type of document that does not relate to the concept of certification in this context.