Governor issues executive order authorizing notarization via audio-visual technology, suspends the personal appearance requirement for notarization

The Missouri Bar’s COVID-19 Response Task Force has been working diligently to identify obstacles preventing lawyers from serving their clients and communities during these challenging times and to recommend immediate, practical responses. Protecting Missourians, especially senior citizens and those most at risk, from coronavirus, while helping them complete necessary legal documents was an immediate priority. Drawing on the task force’s recommendations, The Missouri Bar and other professions provided options to Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and Governor Mike Parson for an executive order allowing notarization to continue safely in our state.

Today, April 6, 2020, Gov. Parson issued an executive order suspending the requirement of personal appearance before a notary public, allowing notarization to be performed through audio-video technology, under certain circumstances. Under this order, lawyers can continue to help Missourians complete documents of importance. The quick work of task force members and the prompt action by Gov. Parson and Secretary Ashcroft are greatly appreciated.

Read the full executive order, 20-08, here.

As we move forward, please contact us with any questions or concerns. If you know of any other issues that should be considered by The Missouri Bar’s COVID-19 Task Force, we want to hear them. The task force, as well as your Missouri Bar leadership and staff, are here to help. 

Stay well, 

Tom Bender, 2019-20 Missouri Bar President