good thing I am a legal expert (that's what I do)- we often dtae a document "effective as of a date" earlier than the date that the last signature is obtained- for many reasons, including adjustments/apportionments "froma and after" closing date, as well as for allocation of liability pre and post-closing. I understand the need to be sceptical in the penny world, but looking for a conspiracy at every turn not really productive-