General Notary Work

General notary work encompasses a range of services related to document authentication and verification. Here is a list of common tasks performed by notaries:

• Document Notarization: Verifying and witnessing the signing of various documents, including contracts, agreements, affidavits, and powers of attorney.

• Administering Oaths and Affirmations: Administering legally binding oaths and affirmations for individuals providing sworn statements or testimony.

• Identity Verification: Confirming the identity of document signers through the examination of government-issued identification, such as driver's licenses or passports.

• Witnessing Signatures: Serving as an impartial witness to ensure that signers voluntarily and knowingly execute documents.

• Acknowledgments: Certifying that signers acknowledge the content of the document and are signing it willingly.

• Jurats: Administering oaths or affirmations and certifying that the signer signed the document in their presence.

• Copy Certification: Verifying the authenticity of copies of original documents, such as diplomas, transcripts, or other non-recordable documents.

• Loan Signing: Assisting with loan document signings for mortgage and real estate transactions, ensuring all documents are properly executed.

• Medical Directives: Notarizing healthcare directives, living wills, and durable powers of attorney for healthcare decisions.

• Travel Consent Forms: Notarizing travel consent forms to allow minors to travel with a guardian or alone, often required for international travel.

• Deed and Title Transfers: Verifying and witnessing the signing of property deeds and title transfers.

• Last Will and Testament: Notarizing wills to ensure their legality and authenticity.

• Court Documents: Notarizing legal documents, such as affidavits or pleadings, for use in court proceedings.

• Notary Certificates: Creating and affixing notarial certificates to documents, including the notary's signature, seal, and relevant information.

• Mobile Notary Services: Offering the convenience of traveling to clients' locations, such as homes, hospitals, or offices, for notarization.

• Electronic Notarization: Providing notary services for electronic documents and transactions in states where electronic notarization is authorized.

These are some of the primary responsibilities of a notary public, but the specific tasks may vary by jurisdiction and the nature of the documents involved. Notaries play a crucial role in ensuring the authenticity and legality of various transactions and legal instruments.

Click here to learn about Essential Items To Bring To A Notary Signing.