You’ve probably heard the term “notary public” in connection with legal documents, but have you ever wondered what a notary actually does?
Let’s talk about the essential role notaries play in safeguarding the authenticity and integrity of important transactions.
What Is a Notary Public?
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A notary public is an official appointed by the state government to serve as an impartial witness during the signing of important documents.
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Their job is to verify the identity of the signers, confirm their willingness to sign, and ensure the transaction is free from fraud or coercion.
Common Uses of a Notary Public
• Real estate closings • Power of attorney forms • Estate planning documents (wills, trusts) • Loan agreements • Business contracts • Adoption paperwork • Vehicle title transfers, and more!
Why It Matters
Having a document notarized offers peace of mind. It ensures the document is legally valid and will hold up in court if needed.
Whether you’re buying a home, starting a business, or planning your estate, a notary protects you by confirming the identity of each signer and that all parties involved understand and agree to the terms.
Limitations
Most notaries are not attorneys, and therefore, cannot offer any legal advice, prepare documents, or attest to the contents of the documents being notarized.
You should always consult with an attorney to ensure you have the correct documents and that they have been prepared correctly to be valid.
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