What does proof refer to regarding notarial acts?

Proof, in the context of notarial acts, refers to the testimony or declaration made by a subscribing witness who has observed the signing of a document. This is significant because it adds an additional layer of verification to the notarial process. When a subscribing witness attests that they have witnessed the signing, it enhances the credibility and validity of the document in question. This form of proof is important for establishing the authenticity of the signatures and the intent of the parties involved.

While other options might pertain to different aspects of notarization or document handling, none provide the specific context of a subscribing witness as proof in the notarial process. A formal declaration or an abstract of the content of a document does not serve the same purpose of verifying the witnessing of the signing itself. Similarly, a written record of a notarial act, while important for maintaining a notary's journal, does not embody the notion of proof as defined by the witness' declaration. Thus, the role of proof as a declaration from a subscribing witness is essential in the validation of notarized documents.