In the realm of rapidly advancing technology and the raging convenience that it brings along, the notarization process is not far behind. Traditional notarization necessitated a physical encounter with a notary public, however, the digital age has witnessed an evolution of this concept to online notarization services. This seamless digitization of notarization is not only advantageous in terms of convenience, but also adds an unprecedented layer of security, integrity, and reliability to the process.

The premise of online notarization revolves around the concept of remote notarization or remote online notarization (RON), wherein a notary public performs a notarial act by virtue of an audio-visual call, rather than an in-person encounter. In this case, the signer and the notary public are not located in the same place. To validate the process, the signer is identified through various methods of validation such as knowledge-based authentication (KBA), credential analysis, and identity proofing.

However, hiring a reliable online notary service might seem like a daunting task, given the mushrooming of numerous service providers in this domain. The process of choosing a reliable service is multi-faceted and necessitates a deep understanding of various factors that play a significant role in the notarization process.

The first critical factor to consider is the adherence to the statutory requirements. Notary laws differ by state and some states in the US, for instance, have enacted laws allowing online notarizations, while others have not. An online notary service should strictly adhere to these guidelines to ensure the legitimacy and integrity of the notarial acts performed.

The next crucial aspect is the technology deployed by the online notary service. The platform used by the service should be user-friendly and robust, providing a seamless experience for the end user. It should employ advanced technologies such as secure socket layer (SSL) encryption to ensure the safe transmission of documents. Further, it should also facilitate electronic signatures and electronic seals to maintain the sanctity of the notarial act.

Additionally, the online notary service should be equipped with a suite of features that enhance the convenience for the user. These features may include scheduling tools for setting up appointments, email notifications, electronic document storage, and 24/7 service availability.

From an economic viewpoint, it is pertinent to assess the cost-effectiveness of the service. While online notarization might seem expensive compared to traditional notarization, the convenience, efficiency, and security it offers are factors that justify the cost. However, it is important to ensure that the pricing structure of the service is transparent and there are no hidden costs involved.

Now, let's delve into the process of hiring a reliable online notary service. The first step involves doing extensive research about the prospective service providers. This research should encompass checking their credibility, technology, convenience features, and cost-effectiveness. Subsequently, reviews and testimonials from previous users will provide an insight into the reliability and efficiency of the service.

The next step is to reach out to these service providers and inquire about their adherence to the statutory requirements based on your location. This step is critical to confirm the validity of the notarial acts performed by the service.

Finally, you should conduct a trial of the service to ensure its user-friendliness, security features, and overall functionality. This step is a significant determinant in the final hiring decision.

In conclusion, the process of hiring a reliable online notary service demands careful deliberation and a deep understanding of the inherent complexities. But, with due consideration to the factors discussed above, you can navigate this process successfully and enjoy the optimal advantages of online notarization.