Posted by anotaryinva on 3/17/12 6:46pm
Msg #415259

Need help, with jail notarizations

If you have any experience please email or pm me

Reply by anotaryinva on 3/17/12 6:47pm
Msg #415260

I am a Deputy In the Fairfax county Jail and also a notary.  I have recently been told that the inmate wrist band is NOT a valid form of ID per the Virginia Notary Handbook.  The inmate wrist bands that we currently use have a photo of the inmate along with an identifying number that relates to more detailed information on the individual (inmate).  I have talked to the Notary Director in Richmond and they would not give me a clear cut answer on the matter (“the acceptable forms of ID are outlined within the Notary Handbook”).  They stated that only the Department of Corrections ID card serves as a valid ID card.
 
A lot of the inmates that we encounter do not have ID cards or have access to them.  I am seeking a creative solution for a very difficult problem.
 

Reply by LKT/CA on 3/17/12 7:07pm
Msg #415262

Who called to make the arrangements? Spouse, other family member, attorney? Let THAT person know what ID is allowable per Virginia law and leave it up to THEM to take care of it. If they cannot, then, OH WELL!! I guess the inmate won't be getting their paperwork notarized.

People get mad at the notary because THEY didn't take care of business and there's nothing the notary can do for them. Such is life!

Reply by Regal/NC on 3/18/12 8:37am
Msg #415287

Per the Virginia Notary Handbook:

"THE NOTARY’S GREATEST RESPONSIBILITY
Before performing a notarial act, a notary must be CERTAIN of the identity of each person whose signature will be notarized. A notary is required to exercise a HIGH DEGREE OF CARE in determining the identity of any person whose identity is the subject of a notarial act. Unless such person is known by the notary, identity shall be ascertained by examination of one or more of the following documents: a United States Passport, a certificate of United States citizenship, a certificate of naturalization, an unexpired foreign passport, an alien registration card with photograph, a state-issued driver’s license, state-issued identification card, or a United States military card."

My interpretation is that since the "Wrist Band" is issued by the state, then it is a valid form of ID. I would enter the info into my notary journal and complete the transaction.

JMHO!!

Reply by CJ on 3/19/12 1:06am
Msg #415348

Who "told" you that the wristband was no good? I have called our Secretary of State for answers and found out the person on the other line wasn't even a notary. I would read the VA handbook thouroughly myself and see what you can make of it. I like the answer by Regal/NC.

Reply by CopperheadVA on 3/19/12 6:43am
Msg #415353

In the past when I have asked questions of our Virginia Notary Division, they have given very muddled answers that were not clear - which I believe was intentional. Very frustrating.

However, based on the things you say they told you:
“the acceptable forms of ID are outlined within the Notary Handbook” and
"They stated that only the Department of Corrections ID card serves as a valid ID card."

These statements lead me to believe they were telling you that the wristband is not acceptable, without them actually saying "No you can't use the wristband".

Reply by anotaryinva on 3/19/12 10:26am
Msg #415367

The second post was from an email I received. The poor deputy didn't know what to do, thanks for your help.