A notary public is a public officer who serves as an impartial witness in the signing of important documents and verifies their authenticity. The primary function of a notary public is to prevent fraud by ensuring the proper execution of documents. Notaries are appointed by government authorities, typically at the state or national level, and their powers and responsibilities vary depending on the jurisdiction.

When a document requires notarization, the notary public will verify the identity of the person signing the document to ensure they are the intended signer. The notary will also confirm that the signer understands the contents of the document and is signing voluntarily, without any coercion or duress. Once these elements are satisfied, the notary will affix their official seal or stamp to the document, along with their signature and the date.

Common documents that may require notarization include affidavits, powers of attorney, real estate deeds, wills, loan documents, and various legal agreements. The presence of a notary public provides an additional layer of credibility and legal certainty to these documents.

Notaries public also have the authority to administer oaths and affirmations, which are solemn declarations made by individuals who are legally bound to tell the truth. This function is often necessary for affidavits or depositions.

It's important to note that the specific laws and regulations governing notaries public can vary between countries, states, and even local jurisdictions. Therefore, the exact duties and limitations of a notary public may differ depending on the specific legal framework in which they operate.

The Notary Public’s Responsibility:

• Identify Signer

• Maintain a Journal

• Usage of a Acknowledgement, Jurat and Signature Witness

• Know your own notarial state laws

• Be Professional