AcknowledgmentA formal declaration before an authorized officer by the person who executed an instrument that it is their act and deed.AffiantThe person who makes and signs an affidavit.AffidavitA signed statement sworn to before a notary or other officer authorized to administer oaths.AffirmationA solemn declaration for those who conscientiously decline an oath. Equivalent to an oath and just as binding.ApostilleA Department of State authentication attached to a notarized, county-certified document for possible international use.AttestTo witness the execution of a written instrument at the maker's request and sign it as a witness.Attestation clauseThe clause, e.g. at the end of a will, where witnesses certify the instrument was executed before them.Authentication (notarial)A county clerk's certificate verifying the notary's authority to act.Bill of saleA written instrument passing title of personal property from vendor to vendee.Certified copyA copy of a public record certified by the official who has custody of the original. Notaries cannot issue them.ChattelPersonal property, such as household goods or fixtures.CodicilAn instrument made after a will that modifies it.ConsiderationAnything of value given to induce entering into a contract.Conveyance (deed)Every written instrument, except a will, by which an interest in real property is created, transferred, assigned or surrendered.DeponentOne who makes oath to a written statement. Used interchangeably with affiant.DepositionOut-of-court testimony of a witness under oath, intended for use at a trial or hearing.DuressUnlawful constraint forcing a person to act against their will.EscrowAn instrument held by a depository and delivered to a third person on a designated event.ExecutorThe person named in a will to carry out its provisions.AdministratorA person appointed by the court to manage the estate of someone who died without a will.Ex parteFrom one side only: a hearing or examination with one party, in the absence of the other.FelonyA crime punishable by death or imprisonment in a state prison.MisdemeanorAny crime other than a felony.JuratThe part of an affidavit where the notary certifies it was sworn to before them. It is not the affidavit.LachesDelay or negligence in asserting one's legal rights.LienA legal claim on specific property until a debt is satisfied.OathA verbal pledge that statements are made under an immediate sense of responsibility to God.PerjuryKnowingly and willfully giving false material testimony under oath or affirmation.Power of attorneyA written statement by an individual giving another person the power to act for them.ProofA subscribing witness's formal declaration that they knew the signer and saw them execute the instrument.ProtestA notary's formal written statement that a bill or note was presented for payment or acceptance and refused.SealNot required in NY. If used, it should show the notary's name and "Notary Public for the State of New York".Statute of limitationsA law limiting the time within which a prosecution or civil action must be started.Subordination clauseA clause allowing a later mortgage to take priority over an existing one.VenueThe geographic place of the notarial act, e.g. "State of New York, County of ___ ss.:".WillThe disposition of one's property to take effect after death.