FAQ About A Notary Public

Q: What is a Notary Public?

A: A Notary Public is a public official appointed by a state government to witness the signing of important documents and administer oaths. They are responsible for verifying the identity of the signers and ensuring they are signing the document voluntarily.

Q: What types of documents can a Notary Public notarize?

A: Notaries can notarize a wide variety of documents, including legal documents, deeds, contracts, affidavits, and power of attorney forms.

Q: Is a Notary Public the same as a lawyer?

A: No, a Notary Public is not the same as a lawyer. A Notary’s role is primarily to serve as an impartial witness to the signing of important documents, while a lawyer is trained to provide legal advice and represent clients in legal matters.

Q: Do I need an appointment to see a Notary Public?

A: It depends on the Notary Public’s office. Some may require an appointment while others may provide walk-in service. It’s best to check with the specific Notary Public’s office to see what their policy is.

Q: What do I need to bring to a Notary Public?

A: You will need to bring the document that needs to be notarized, as well as a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card.

Q: How much does it cost to have a document notarized?

A: The cost can vary depending on the state and the specific Notary Public. Some charge a flat fee for each signature, while others charge by the page. It’s best to check with the specific Notary Public’s office for their fee schedule.

Q: Can a notary public witness a will?

A: Yes, a notary public can witness the signing of a will. However, the notary must confirm that the testator (person making the will) signing the will is doing so voluntarily and under no duress or undue influence.

Q: Can a notary public certify a copy of a document?

A: Yes, a notary public can certify a copy of a document. This process is called “certified true copy” and the notary will compare the original document to the copy and attach a certificate of authenticity to the copy