Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE) Practice Exam

What does an addition to a signed document require to be considered valid?

1. Witness approval

2. Signature initials

3. A notarized statement

4. Legal representation

The correct answer is: Signature initials

For an addition to a signed document to be deemed valid, it is essential that the original signatory initials the addition. By initialing, the signatory demonstrates their acknowledgment and acceptance of the change, effectively affirming that the modification is part of the original agreement. This practice upholds the integrity of the original document while ensuring that any alterations are officially recognized by all parties involved. Initialing serves a crucial role in preserving the clarity of the intent behind the document and helps prevent any disputes regarding what was agreed upon originally versus what was added later. It acts as a safeguard against unauthorized or unintended amendments. The other options, while they may have their places in legal contexts, do not universally validate an alteration in the same direct manner. Witness approval might enhance the credibility of a modification but is not a requirement for validity. A notarized statement can bolster the authenticity of a document but does not specifically pertain to additions made post-signing. Legal representation is beneficial in navigating complex legal matters, but it does not directly validate additions to signed documents.