What is a Notary Public?
A Notary Public is a state appointed Public servant who witnesses the finalizing of essential documents and carries out oaths.
How Long Have Notaries Been Around?
The Notary Public goes all the way back to early Roman times, when the Pope selected Bishops of Canterbury as Notary Publics to deal with legal notes. These Bishops, referred to as Notaries, handled land transfers, marriage propositions, and criminal matters that needed witnesses.
Why Do I Need a Notary?
Legal files are typically notarized in order to avoid scams and guarantee they are appropriately performed. A Notary serve as an identifier, ensuring all signers are who they say they are and comprehend the contracts they are signing.
How Does a Notary Verify Identification?
The Notary will ask to confirm identity through picture identification with a physical description and signature. Driver's licenses, military ids, or passports are usually enough. If the Notary is not sure about a signer's identity, determination, or mental state, or has any need to suspect scams, they may choose not to serve.
Are Notarizations Required By Law?
It depends upon the files. Many affidavits, deeds, and other files may not be bound lawfully until they are appropriately notarized. In cases where a notarization is not required, people might wish to notarize files in order to protect them from scams. That being said, a notarization does not make a file "legal." It just suggests the Notary saw the recommendation of the signer under oath and the contract that the contents of the file are appropriate.
Do Notaries Prepare Legal Files?
No. A Notary may not prepare legal files, and even function as a legal adviser in any way, unless they are also an lawyer. Breaking this guideline may cause prosecution. They can not provide suggestions about your documents.There are certain Notaries that can do more than others, such as validate divorce papers or deed transfers. When you are trying to find a Notary Public, find one that suites your particular needs. In this day and age, many individuals can be designated the status of Notary Public. You might hold the title of Notary Public if you are a doctor, legal representative, notary public austin priest, or even an average Joe.
A Notary might not prepare legal documents, or even act as a legal consultant in any way, unless they are likewise an lawyer. When you are looking for a Notary Public, find one that suites your particular needs. In this day and age, numerous people can be designated the status of Notary Public. You might hold the title of Notary Public if you are a doctor, legal representative, priest, or even an average Joe.