Bulletin: NJ2017005

Dear Associates:

We have recently seen an increase in questions related to who may acknowledge a document to be recorded in New Jersey. Pursuant to N.J.S.A 46:14-2.1, the following individuals may take acknowledgment or proofs: (1) an attorney-at-law; (2) a notary public; (3) a county clerk or deputy county clerk; (4) a register of deeds and mortgages or a deputy register; (5) a surrogate or deputy surrogate. In addition to these individuals, the statute permits foreign service or consular officers or other representatives of the United States to any foreign nation, within the territory of that nation. This means that documents can be acknowledged outside the United States at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. 

It is important to note under N.J.S.A 46:14-2.1, these individuals are allowed to take acknowledgments or proofs not only in the State of New Jersey but also in all other states and even foreign countries. For example, a New Jersey attorney may acknowledge a deed in Germany. This can be helpful when dealing with signatories who are traveling abroad and cannot make a timely appointment with a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  

If you have any questions relating to this or other bulletins, please contact a Stewart Title Guaranty Company underwriter.

For on-line viewing of this and other bulletins, please log onto www.vuwriter.com.