Your Immigration Attorney Asked for a Notarized Affidavit: What Happens Next?
Need an affidavit notarized for an immigration matter in NYC? Learn what to confirm with your attorney, how to prepare, and how CSS INK NOTARY can help.
Your immigration attorney has asked you to provide a notarized affidavit. You have the document, but now you're wondering:
Do I sign it before meeting the notary? What identification do I need? Can I complete this online?
If you're preparing immigration-related paperwork in New York City, understanding the notarization process can help you avoid unnecessary delays.
What Is an Affidavit?
An affidavit is a written statement of facts that a person confirms under oath or affirmation.
In immigration-related matters, an attorney may request an affidavit to support information about a relationship, personal circumstances, or other facts relevant to a case.
For example, someone may be asked to provide a sworn statement describing how they know a couple or confirming certain events they personally witnessed.
Not every immigration-related statement requires notarization. Your attorney or the organization receiving the document should confirm the specific requirements.
Scenario: Your Attorney Sends You an Affidavit to Sign
Imagine you're helping a family member with an immigration matter.
Your attorney emails an affidavit and asks you to have it notarized before returning it to the office.
You work during regular business hours and aren't sure where to begin.
Here are five steps to help you prepare.
Step 1: Confirm the Document Is Ready
Before scheduling a notary appointment, review the document with your attorney or document preparer.
Make sure your name and other required information are correct, and confirm whether any supporting documents or additional signers are needed.
A notary cannot provide immigration legal advice or determine whether the contents of an affidavit are sufficient for your case.
Step 2: Ask Whether You Should Sign in Front of the Notary
Many affidavits require a jurat, which involves signing in the notary's presence and taking an oath or affirmation.
If your document requires a jurat, do not sign it before your appointment.
Other documents may require an acknowledgment, which follows a different procedure.
If you're uncertain, ask your attorney which notarial act is required.
Step 3: Have Acceptable Identification Ready
The notary must verify your identity according to applicable New York requirements.
Before your appointment, ask which forms of identification are acceptable.
Your name on the identification should be consistent with the document, or any differences should be discussed before the appointment.
Step 4: Decide Between Mobile and Remote Online Notarization
If you're located in Queens, Manhattan, or Brooklyn, a mobile notary appointment may be convenient.
Instead of traveling to another office, you can arrange for a notary to meet you at an agreed-upon location.
Remote Online Notarization (RON) may also be an option for eligible documents.
However, immigration agencies and other receiving organizations may have specific requirements regarding electronic signatures and notarization. Confirm acceptance with your attorney before choosing RON.
Step 5: Return the Completed Document to Your Attorney
After notarization, follow your attorney's instructions for returning the affidavit.
Some offices may request a scanned copy first, while others require the original document.
Confirm the delivery method and deadline before your appointment.
What If English Is Not Your First Language?
Understanding what you're signing is important.
CSS INK NOTARY offers communication in English and Spanish to help clients understand the appointment process.
However, the notary does not act as an immigration attorney, provide legal translations, or explain the legal consequences of the document.
If you need help understanding the affidavit itself, consult your attorney or a qualified translator.
How CSS INK NOTARY Can Help
CSS INK NOTARY provides mobile notary services throughout Queens, Manhattan, and Brooklyn, along with Remote Online Notarization for eligible documents.
We also offer flexible appointments, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends, subject to availability.
Whether you're working with an immigration attorney or preparing a sworn statement requested by another organization, our goal is to make the notarization appointment professional, convenient, and straightforward.
Need an Immigration-Related Affidavit Notarized in NYC?