Parties
Full legal names and entity types for each party; include DBA only with the registered entity name.
A properly prepared Legal Image Draft reduces execution errors, supports enforceability under the ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. ch. 96) and UETA (1999) where applicable, and preserves a reliable audit trail for attribution and retention requirements.
Legal Image Drafts are used by in-house legal teams, contract administrators, compliance officers, and frontline staff who prepare documents for signature and filing.
The draft format supports collaboration between legal counsel and operational teams, and it makes later conversion to an e-signed record simpler and more auditable.
An authorized corporate officer with delegated signature authority who reviews legal terms, confirms governing law clauses, and signs on the corporation's behalf when corporate bylaws permit. This role typically ensures the signature aligns with board resolutions or delegation documents.
An operations or finance leader explicitly named in a signature authorization list or power of attorney. They must sign exactly as their authorized name appears in company records to avoid attribution disputes.
Full legal names and entity types for each party; include DBA only with the registered entity name.
A single effective date field in MM/DD/YYYY format to determine when obligations begin.
Dedicated blocks for each signer with printed name, title, and date lines; individual blocks for witnesses or notarization where required.
A state selection clause specifying which state law interprets the agreement.
A clear, specific statement of payment, services, or mutual obligations that avoids vague phrasing.
Explicit exhibit references by letter or number and an attachment list to preserve ancillary terms.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signer Order | Sequential or parallel routing; choose sequential for role-based approval |
| Authentication | Email link, SMS code, or KBA depending on signer risk |
| Retention | Set automatic export to secure archive and retention policy |
| Notifications | Customize reminders and expiry alerts for signers |
Choose a platform that supports standard formats, secure transport, and authentication methods matched to the document's legal sensitivity.
Allow 3–10 business days for reviews and approvals
Set signer deadlines; common window is 7–14 days
File with agency by required date or upon execution
Obtain notarization close to signing date when required
Begin retention per document lifecycle and law
Signer provides acceptable ID and any required credential analysis
Witnesses sign in the physical or recorded virtual presence of notary
Notary completes certificate, adds seal and journal entry
For RON, retain A/V recording per state rules
Append notarial certificate to final executed document
Notary retains journal entries and identity proofing artifacts
Follow state-specific notary and witness statutes
Keep audit trail and signature certificate securely
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial, no credit card | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor |
| Bulk Send | Available on Business Premium | Plan-dependent | Plan-dependent | Available | Plan-dependent |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes (BAA available) | Varies by offering | Varies by offering | Varies by offering | Varies by offering |
A broker prepares a draft lease for remote signature
A clinic prepares a patient consent draft with HIPAA addendum