Seals: A Comprehensive Guide to Their Legal Definition and Usage

Definition & Meaning

A seal is an impression or mark made by a device, often an engraved metallic or stone plate, on wax, a wafer, or directly on a document. Seals serve as a form of authentication, indicating that a document has been validly executed, acknowledged, or witnessed. They are unique to the individual or entity that creates them, such as government agencies, corporations, or notaries public. Corporate seals, for instance, typically include the name of the corporation, the date of incorporation, and the state where it was established.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

Seals are primarily used in legal contexts to authenticate documents, ensuring they are recognized as valid. This is particularly relevant in areas such as corporate law, where a corporate seal is required on certain documents, including contracts and bylaws. Users may encounter forms related to seals in various legal situations, such as establishing a corporation or executing legal agreements. US Legal Forms provides templates that can help users create and manage these documents effectively.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, a corporation may use its seal to authenticate a contract with a vendor. This seal indicates that the agreement has been officially approved by the corporation's authorized representatives. (Hypothetical example.)

State-by-state differences

State	Seal Requirements
California	Requires corporate seals for certain documents but allows for electronic signatures.
New York	Corporate seals are often used but not mandatory for all documents.
Texas	Seals are not required for most business documents, but may still be used for formal agreements.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition
Notary Seal	An official mark used by a notary public to authenticate documents.
Corporate Seal	A specific type of seal used by corporations to validate official documents.
Signature	A person's name written in their own handwriting, used to indicate agreement or approval.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you need to use a seal for a document, ensure you understand the specific requirements for your state and situation. You can explore US Legal Forms for templates that help you create documents requiring a seal. If your situation is complex, consider consulting a legal professional for tailored advice.

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Quick facts

Seals authenticate documents.
Unique to the creator.
Varies by state in terms of requirements.
Commonly used in corporate law.