Do Releases Need To Be Notarized?

author of post avatar

OneNotary Team

July 4, 2021

Remote Notary

There are numerous reasons why you might need to get a release form. At the same time, you need to make sure you go through the process properly. Do releases need to be notarized? Learn more about a general release below.

What Are Releases?

A general release form, which is also called a liability release, is it document that removes the right of one party to bring a legal claim against another person or entity. This is a document that is commonly used to resolve disputes that may take place between parties. Specifically, this is a document that can be used to prevent future conflicts.

In this process, one party will surrender the right to bring a claim against another party. Usually, this document has an effective date after which claims cannot be brought. Often, the release will also specify boundaries, meaning that a specific type of claim might not be allowed in court; however, other types of claims might be allowed. This is something that those parties will need to agree upon before the release is signed.

Notarize a Document in the US

Typically, a release is going to include several components. These include:

  • There will be a clear statement that one party releases the other party from a specific situation.
  • There will also be considerations indicated that the release is valid and enforceable.
  • The release has to be acknowledged by the other party.
  • There has to be a date after which the document is active.
  • The release also has to be signed.

If these components are not active, then the document may not be legally enforceable. It is important to go through this process with a licensed attorney to learn more about how these documents work.

Types of Releases

There are several types of releases that could be signed by multiple parties. A few examples include:

  • General releases are commonly used when parties are making an effort to be comprehensive regarding the coverage. This could include all known and unknown issues.
  • Mutual releases are commonly used when both parties are trying to protect each other. This is commonly used to prevent future conflicts from arising.
  • A lot of people sign a waiver before they participate in an event or activity that could be dangerous. This is a waiver that protects the company against injury that accidents that might take place.
  • There are some cases where a waiver could be issued for personal injury, meaning that someone cannot bring personal injury claims against another party.
  • Many people also use waivers for damages to properties. For example, the person might indicate that another party is not responsible for any damage that takes place to the property.
  • Waivers are also commonly used following auto accidents for event companies against future claims that could be brought by the people involved.

These are just a few of the most common waivers and releases that people might use. One of the most common questions people ask is whether a waiver form has to be notarized.

Do Releases Need To Be Notarized?

The regulations regarding getting these forms notarized can vary from place to place. It also depends on the type of waiver being used. Even if a notary public is not legally required to be involved, it is still a good idea to get these forms notarized in the presence of a notary public. That way, there will not be any issues or concerns regarding the document is being rejected by a court of law.

Even though there are situations where someone might feel like they need to drive around from place to place in order to get a form notarized, this is no longer required. Now, it is possible for people to get a notarized release form online. How does this process work?

How To Get The Release Notarized Online

Notarize a Document Remotely

There are locations for people can meet with a notary online and order to get a form notarized. For example, OneNotary has become one of the most popular locations for people to get a notarized waiver form. The steps involved in this process include:

  1. First, take a look at the schedule and select a date and time that works.
  2. Then, an email confirmation will be sent. There will be a link in this email to upload all documents that are relevant to the notarization process. That way, the notary can review them ahead of time.
  3. After this, the participant may be asked to answer a few questions to verify his or her identity prior to the session. This is important for completing the notary process.
  4. Once the time arrives, you will meet with the notary to discuss the documents that are being notarized. It will be the responsibility of the notary to make sure the document has been filled out appropriately. The notary will also make sure everyone understands the contents of the document.
  5. Finally, once the session is done, the notarized document will be made available for download.

Getting documents notarized online is a great way to save time and money during the process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Releases

There are a few common questions people have about releases. These include:

How do I know if I have the right type of waiver or release document?

Waivers and releases are usually legally binding documents. Therefore, if you have questions about this process, you should meet with an attorney who can walk you through it. That way, you know you have the right document.

Do I have to get my waiver or release form notarized?

You need to take a look at the type of document as well as your location. Even if it is not legally required for you to get the document notarized, you should still do so to protect yourself.