Need a Legal And Professional Services / Notary Public Contract in South Carolina? AroundWire Can Help

In South Carolina, contracts for Legal and Professional Services involving Notary Publics are typically governed by both state procurement regulations and the South Carolina Notary Public Act (S.C. Code Ann. § 26-1-5 et seq.). Notaries must hold an active commission from the Secretary of State and adhere to specific duties, including proper identification of signers and maintenance of accurate records. Contracts generally require proof of commission and may mandate that notaries carry errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, although this is not a statutory requirement but a common risk mitigation practice. Contractors should expect clauses addressing compliance with state notarial laws, confidentiality, and non-delegation of notarial acts. Payment terms are often net 30 days, but may be contingent on completion and verification of services. State law caps notarial fees, and contracts must reflect these statutory limits. Dispute resolution is frequently addressed through mediation or arbitration clauses, with venue typically set in South Carolina. State procurement rules may necessitate background checks, especially for contracts with public entities. Key risk factors include improper notarization leading to document invalidity or liability claims, making clear documentation and adherence to prescribed procedures essential. Finally, procurement contracts often require ongoing compliance with changes in state law and may include termination clauses for non-compliance or misconduct.