A Notary is a designation to be respected. They are appointed by state government to witness the signing of important documents and administer oaths. Their legal responsibility is to detour fraud and to ensure proper execution. The Notary is an impartial witness that ensures the signers of documents are who they say they are and not impostors. The Notary makes sure that signers have entered into agreements knowingly and willingly.
There are many documents, especially in the real estate industry that are no considered legal and binding unless they are property notarized.
The Notary is not responsible for the accuracy or legality of documents and, they are not able to give legal advice unless of course they are an attorney.
Identity theft is a really hot topic that we are faced with daily. Consequently a Notary Public is required by Federal law to refuse service to anyone that cannot reasonably prove their identity. A standard notarization will require you produce a government issued photo ID such as a valid Driver’s License or a Passport. If you have any questions regarding property identification, contact your Notary.