Scope of Authority
Precisely list functions the agent may perform, such as filing, receiving notices, or communicating with specific agencies; avoid open-ended language to limit disputes.
A clear authorization reduces ambiguity about who may file, receive, or process legal documents, creates an audit trail of consent, and limits organizational liability. It documents electronic-consent preferences and supports compliance with ESIGN and applicable state e-signature rules.
Common users include internal legal and operations teams, outside counsel, and third-party service providers who need documented authority to act.
A company's General Counsel typically signs when delegating legal filings or regulatory interactions; they confirm corporate authority, ensure the delegation aligns with bylaws, and may attach internal approval documentation.
An external vendor or law firm authorized to submit documents on behalf of a client; authorization should specify limits, processing methods, required security measures, and contact points for escalation.
Precisely list functions the agent may perform, such as filing, receiving notices, or communicating with specific agencies; avoid open-ended language to limit disputes.
Specify effective and termination dates and any conditions that trigger automatic expiry, such as completion of a specific filing or written revocation.
Include full legal names, addresses, and government ID or employer identification where required to match third‑party records and avoid processing errors.
Provide a signature block and state the acceptable authentication method (email, SMS OTP, or notarization) consistent with the transaction's sensitivity.
Note any geographic, matter-specific, or monetary limits and require prior notice or co-signature for actions outside those bounds.
Require secure storage of the signed authorization, an audit trail of actions taken, and where records will be kept for compliance purposes.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Authentication Method | Email link | SMS code option |
| Routing Order | Sequential or parallel signer order |
| Reminders | Automated reminders every 3 days |
| Storage Location | Encrypted cloud storage with access controls |
Evaluate supported file formats, integrations, and authentication methods before moving online.
Form becomes effective on the signed date unless otherwise specified
Allow 3–5 business days for internal verification and routing
Submit to agencies promptly; deadlines vary by filing type
Revoke in writing; give reasonable notice to processors
Complete notarization before external submission if required
| 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 | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes (Premium+) | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Yes | Varies by plan |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Envelope Cap | No cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies | Varies | Varies |