Virginia § 55.1-642 - Acknowledgments taken before notary who was appointed but failed to qualify; vested rights saved

Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 55.1-642 — Acknowledgments taken before notary who was appointed but failed to qualify; vested rights saved, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 55.1-642. Acknowledgments taken before notary who was appointed but failed to qualify; vested rights saved

All certificates of acknowledgment to deeds and other writings taken and certified prior to July 1, 1995, by a person who was appointed as a notary public by the Governor but who failed to qualify as provided by law shall be held and are hereby declared valid and effective in all respects if otherwise valid, and all such deeds and other writings that have been recorded in any clerk's office in the Commonwealth upon such certificates shall be held to be duly and regularly recorded if such recordation is otherwise valid according to law; however, nothing in this section shall be so construed as to affect any intervening vested rights.

1956, c. 713, § 55-134.1; 1959, Ex. Sess., c. 92; 1972, c. 631; 1976, c. 685; 1984, c. 35; 1989, c. 602; 1995, c. 48; 2019, c. 712.

Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 55.1-642

What does Code of Virginia § 55.1-642 cover?

Section 55.1-642 ("Acknowledgments taken before notary who was appointed but failed to qualify; vested rights saved") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Virginia § 55.1-642?

A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 55.1-642" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Virginia law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.

How does Virginia § 55.1-642 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.