Legal Definitions - state seal

A state seal is an official emblem or symbol adopted by a state government to represent its sovereignty, authority, and identity. It typically features unique designs, mottos, and imagery specific to that state. The primary function of a state seal is to authenticate important government documents, laws, and official commissions, signifying their legitimacy and legal force.

Here are some examples of how a state seal is used:

• Authenticating a New Law: After a state legislature passes a new bill and the governor signs it into law, the official enrolled copy of that law is often stamped with the state seal by the Secretary of State's office.

  This illustrates the term because the state seal on the document serves as the ultimate mark of authenticity, confirming that the bill has successfully completed the legislative process and now carries the full legal authority of the state.

• Official Appointments: When a state governor appoints an individual to a high-ranking position, such as a state court judge or a cabinet member, the official commission document detailing their appointment will bear the state seal.

  This demonstrates the term's meaning by showing how the state seal validates the legitimacy of the appointment, indicating that the individual has been officially vested with the state's authority to perform their duties.

• Issuing Official Certificates: When a citizen requests an official copy of a vital record, such as a birth certificate or a marriage license, from the state's vital records office, the document they receive will typically include an impression or image of the state seal.

  This example highlights the state seal's role in certifying the authenticity of public records. Its presence confirms that the certificate is a true and legally recognized document issued by the state government.