Utah Notary Practice Test

What does a Signature Witness entail in notary practice?

1. The signer was verified through a government ID

2. The signature was made in the notary's presence

3. The signer must appear before a judge

4. A witness must be present legally

The correct answer is: The signature was made in the notary's presence

In notary practice, a Signature Witness entails that the signature was made in the notary's presence. This is a fundamental requirement to ensure that the notary can verify the authenticity of the signature. By observing the signer as they sign the document, the notary can confirm that the person signing is indeed the individual who claims to be signing, thereby reducing the risk of fraud. This presence also allows the notary to ensure that the signer is doing so willingly and is not under any duress. The other options, while related to the notary process, do not directly address the essence of what a Signature Witness involves. Verifying the signer through a government ID is a separate process that contributes to the notary's duty of identification but does not constitute being a witness to the signature itself. Appearing before a judge and the requirement of a witness being present pertain to specific legal proceedings or situations that do not define the notary's role in witnessing a signature. The critical aspect of a Signature Witness is the notary's active involvement in observing the signing process.