Which term describes a statement that the person executing a document has done so of his own free will and that the signatures appear on the document?

• A. Acknowledgement
• B. Verification
• C. Affidavit
• D. Affirmation

Answer: (A)

An acknowledgment is the formal declaration that the person who signed a document did so of their own free will and that the signatures on the document are theirs, typically made in front of a notary. This act validates that the signer appeared before the notary, acknowledged that they signed the document, and did so voluntarily. The notary’s certificate then confirms this appearance and voluntary execution. It doesn’t speak to the truth of the document’s contents—that’s a separate matter handled by affidavits—or to the signature’s authenticity in every case, which would be addressed by verification. It also differs from an affidavit (a sworn statement of facts) and from an affirmation (a non-religious oath). In short, this statement specifically attests to voluntary execution and the appearance of the signer, which is the essence of an acknowledgment.