A Notary must screen the signers of important documents for their true identity, their willingness to sign without pressure or intimidation, and their awareness of the contents of the document or transaction. Some documents also require the Notary to put the signer under an oath. This declares that under penalty of perjury the information contained in a document is true and correct. Property deeds, wills, and powers of attorney are examples of documents that commonly require a Notary. 

Types of Notaries:

There are two different types of notaries: common-law notaries and civil-law notaries. Common-law notaries are not lawyers and are forbidden from providing legal advice. However, civil-law notaries are indeed lawyers who pass the bar and can give you legal advice.

Types of documents that may require notarization:

In order to have legal effect, certain documents must be notarized. Through the process of notarization, notaries deter fraud and establish that the signer knows what document they’re signing. They also establish that they’re a willing participant in the transaction. State governments have deemed it necessary to enlist a trained individual to assist with their execution given the corresponding significance of this subject of legal documents that must be notarized. A “notary public,” following their official appointment, performs as a quasi-public officer to attest to the execution of these documents. You should bring the below documents during a notarization appointment: