Notary FAQ Sheet

A notary, also known as a notary public, is a professional who is authorized by the government to serve as an impartial witness in various legal and financial transactions. The primary role of a notary is to verify the identity of the person signing a document and to ensure that the document is signed voluntarily and with a clear understanding of its contents. Notaries are able to perform a variety of notarial acts, including acknowledging signatures, administering oaths and affirmations, and certifying copies of documents. Notaries are required to follow specific procedures and guidelines set by their state or jurisdiction to ensure that the notarial act is performed in a proper and legal manner. The purpose of notarization is to prevent fraud and to ensure the authenticity of important legal and financial documents.

1. What is notarization: Notarization is the process by which a notary public, an official authorized by the government, verifies the identity of the signers of a document, witnesses the signing of the document, and affixes their seal to the document. This process helps to deter fraud and ensure that important legal documents are authentic.

2. The importance of notarization: Notarization adds an extra layer of security to legal documents. By verifying the identity of the signer, a notary public helps to prevent fraud and ensures that the document is authentic. Many legal documents, such as wills, deeds, and powers of attorney, require notarization in order to be legally binding.

3. Who can perform notarization: Notarization can be performed by a notary public, who is a government-appointed official. Notaries public are required to be impartial and must follow strict guidelines when performing notarizations.

4. The process of notarization: The process of notarization typically involves the signer providing identification to the notary public, signing the document in the presence of the notary public, and having the notary public affix their seal to the document. The notary public may also keep a record of the notarization in their journal.

5. Notarization and electronic documents: Notarization is also possible for electronic documents. Electronic notarization involves the use of digital signatures and electronic seals to verify the authenticity of the document. This type of notarization is becoming more common as more documents are created and signed electronically.

6. Notarization fees: Notaries public typically charge a fee for their services. The fee varies depending on the location and the type of document being notarized. In some cases, the fee may be set by law.

7. Notarization and international documents: Notarization may be required for international documents, such as passports, visas, and foreign adoptions. In these cases, the notary public must follow the guidelines set by the country where the document will be used.

8. Notarization and remote notarization: With the advent of technology, remote notarization has become possible in some states. This allows signers to have their documents notarized without physically being present with the notary public. However, this process is subject to strict guidelines and requirements to ensure the integrity of the notarization process.

9. Notarization and legal advice: Notaries public are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice. They are only authorized to perform notarizations. If you need legal advice, you should consult with an attorney.