What distinguishes an acknowledgment from a jurat in notarization?

The distinguishing feature of an acknowledgment is that the signer confirms their signature on a document in the presence of the notary, affirming that they indeed signed the document voluntarily and for its intended purpose. This process involves the signer stating that they recognize and acknowledge their own signature, thus helping to verify the authenticity of the document.

This clarity serves a crucial function in legal matters, ensuring that the notary has verified the identity of the signer and their intent regarding the content of the document. It’s important to note that in an acknowledgment, the notary does not require the signer to swear or affirm any statements—this aspect differentiates it from a jurat, where an oath or affirmation is necessary.

In contrast, a jurat requires the signer to take an oath asserting the truthfulness of the contents of the document, which is a different process focused on the content rather than the mere act of signing. Consequently, option D accurately captures the essence of an acknowledgment within the notarization process.