What is an acknowledgment in notarial acts?

An acknowledgment in notarial acts refers specifically to a declaration made before a notary by an individual who has signed a document. During this process, the individual confirms that they willingly signed the document and that their signature is genuine. The notary's role is to verify the identity of the signer and ensure that the acknowledgment is made under their instruction and free from duress. This serves to establish the authenticity of the document and provides legal assurance that the signer understood the implications of their signature.

In this context, the definition of acknowledgment clearly distinguishes it from other notarial functions, such as recording transactions or making statements regarding legality, which are not the primary features of an acknowledgment. Additionally, an acknowledgment is distinct from verbal agreements or discussions that lack formal documentation, reinforcing its role as a formal and documented procedure in the notarial process.