When using two credible witnesses, does the Notary need to know either witness personally?

When using two credible witnesses, does the Notary need to know either witness personally?

• A. Yes, they must know both witnesses
• B. Yes, they only need to know one witness
• C. No, they do not need to know either witness
• D. Only if the witnesses are related to the signer

Answer: (C)

When a notary uses two credible witnesses, it is not necessary for the notary to know either of the witnesses personally. Credible witnesses are individuals who can vouch for the identity of the signer, and they must be present at the time of the notarization. Their role is to provide assurance to the notary that the signer is indeed who they claim to be, based on either their personal knowledge of the signer or their established reputation. The important factor is that the credible witnesses must be trustworthy and provide a reasonable level of assurance to the notary regarding the identity of the signer. Neither prior acquaintance nor personal knowledge is required. This flexibility allows notaries to rely on credible witnesses even if they have never met them before, as the credible witnesses should be able to confirm the signer's identity. Thus, in circumstances where the signer does not have valid identification, using two credible witnesses who can establish the signer's identity serves as an acceptable alternative.

When a notary uses two credible witnesses, it is not necessary for the notary to know either of the witnesses personally. Credible witnesses are individuals who can vouch for the identity of the signer, and they must be present at the time of the notarization. Their role is to provide assurance to the notary that the signer is indeed who they claim to be, based on either their personal knowledge of the signer or their established reputation.

The important factor is that the credible witnesses must be trustworthy and provide a reasonable level of assurance to the notary regarding the identity of the signer. Neither prior acquaintance nor personal knowledge is required. This flexibility allows notaries to rely on credible witnesses even if they have never met them before, as the credible witnesses should be able to confirm the signer's identity.

Thus, in circumstances where the signer does not have valid identification, using two credible witnesses who can establish the signer's identity serves as an acceptable alternative.