What determines the type of notarial act to perform when notarizing a document?

The type of notarial act performed when notarizing a document is primarily determined by the notarial wording included within the document itself. Notarial wording specifies the type of acknowledgment or certification required, guiding the notary on how to proceed with the notarization process. This wording indicates whether the document needs a signature acknowledgment, a jurat, or another form of notarization, thereby ensuring the correct legal function is fulfilled as per the requirements of the document.

While the client's request and the type of document are important considerations, they must align with the stipulated notarial wording to ensure the act is valid and proper. The notary's role is to adhere to the legal framework provided by the wording, ensuring that the notarial act meets the standards set forth by state laws. This adherence to prescribed wording ensures that the notarization serves its intended legal purpose, providing a reliable method of confirming the authenticity and intention behind the document.