VeriDoc Sign
Legal Advice to Sign Online Documents
Working digitally has become the usual way of doing business and signing documents online. But this comfort requires an understanding of the rules that govern e-signature. Whether signing a contract, approving a terms of use document or submitting some official forms, always make sure that your online signature is legal and safe.
We will, by way of this blog post, provide insight on the legality of signing online documents and factors such as regulations, practices to consider and mistakes to avoid.
Are Electronic Signatures Legally Binding?
Majority of countries accept the legality of electronic signatures where certain conditions are fulfilled. The ESIGN Act (USA), UETA (USA), eIDAS Regulation (European Union) can be helpful since they provide a legal foundation that accepts electronic signatures.
Key Requirements for Legal Validity:
Purpose of Signing
It should be clear to the signer that they are intending to sign the document.
Agreement to Conduct Business by Means of Electronic Network
There should be consent from both parties to use electronic signatures.
Linkage
and Security of Signature
Signature will be secured by authentication in relation to the signer.
Protection of the Document
The signed document will be protected and not revised by anyone.
5 Legal Tips for Signing Online Documents
1. Choose a Trusted Platform
Select an appropriate e-signature platform like VeriDoc Sign that adheres to international esignature regulations like ETA or other local laws. E-signing services use strong encryption to shield documents, as well as provide audit trails that trace the signing process. They notify you of document usage, making sure that unauthorized people don’t have access to your documents.
2. Authenticate the Identity of Signers
Put in place acceptable measures to carry out proper identification of every party involved in the transaction. This can include multi-factor authentication (e.g. email and SMS codes) or even using government issued identification cards. This makes it impossible for someone who is not authorized to sign the document.
3. Understand Local Laws
Get studying by researching about the e-signature laws associated with your country or the region where you are based. Take for instance Australian ETA or US ESIGN Act which defines the conditions under which e-signatures are reliable. In addition, complying with these laws avoids legal issues if there is enforcement.
4. Retain Evidence of Consent
Make and retain records of the signer’s consent to use electronic signature which includes Jpeg or picture of documents, time data, the lancer stamp and IP Address, witness signed and the relevant agreement acknowledging their intention to electronically sign the document. This proof is helpful in the event of disputes or audits.
Review the Document Thoroughly
It’s crucial to examine the document before signing it. Make sure its accuracy is not in question concerning the details present in it, like dates or any such clauses. Reviewing the document helps in correcting any mistakes that are made as well as ensures that you are indeed in agreement with the terms of the contract.
Common Legal Pitfalls to Avoid
Avoid Unsecure Modes or Platforms
Never use signing platforms that do not have adequate security protocols as this could jeopardise the validity of your signature.
Not Authenticating the Other Party
Take caution and verify all the parties involved; this can help in avoiding fraud which can be committed.
Not Understanding Regional Differences
Make sure to understand the laws that regulate the use of electronic signatures as these tend to differ from one country to another.
Not Storing Signed Documents:
It is extremely important to keep signed documents as files. This comes in handy in case you need to refer to them in the future.
Final Thoughts
You can sign online documents from anywhere in the world with a click of a button, however, it is a procedure that can bring about legal complications, hence understanding the legal part of it is crucial in order to mitigate the risks. Considering the basic measures and using a reliable platform for legal and safe document signing. You can trust VeriDoc Sign as it is a secure service that gives you reassurance of the protection of your signatures alongside being compliant with the regulations. Are you ready to embrace secure and legal online signing?
