How does Pennsylvania law define "signature"?

Pennsylvania law defines "signature" as a person's name or mark executed by them or at their direction with the intent to authenticate a document. This definition emphasizes the importance of intent and the requirement that the name or mark must indicate the individual's assent or authorization regarding the document in question. It allows for flexibility in what constitutes a signature, recognizing that it can be a handwritten name, a stamp, an electronic signature, or another form of marking that represents the individual.

The focus on intent is crucial because it underscores that the act of signing is not simply about how a name is written but rather the intention behind it. A signature must serve the function of confirming that the individual agrees to the contents of the document.

This understanding differentiates it from other concepts such as a stylized representation of a name, which may not convey the same legal intent. A unique mark indicating ownership, while potentially relevant in other contexts, does not meet the broader definition provided by law. Also, stating that only handwritten signatures qualify would be too restrictive and does not align with modern practices, especially as electronic signatures have become widely accepted in many legal contexts.