Final answer:
Remote notary services' legality varies by jurisdiction, with some allowing remote online notarization (RON) under specific laws. Notaries and signers must adhere to the laws of the respective states where the notary act and signing take place.
Step-by-step explanation:
The permissibility of conducting notary services remotely where the signer is not physically present varies depending on jurisdiction and applicable law. Traditionally, notary services require the physical presence of the signer to verify identity and willingness to sign documents without duress.
However, due to advancements in technology and circumstances like the COVID-19 pandemic, many states and countries have passed temporary or permanent laws to allow remote online notarization (RON).
In the case of RON, the notary and the signer interact over a secure audio-visual connection, and identity verification is done through digital means. The signer electronically signs the document, and the notary then notarizes it with a digital seal and signature. It's important to note that notaries must follow the laws of the state where they are commissioned, and signers must adhere to the laws of the state where the notary act takes place.
It's crucial to consult with local or state notary authorities, or legal counsel, to ensure compliance with specific regulations regarding remote notarization. Laws and standards are subject to change, so it's also vital to stay updated with the latest legal requirements.