What is a Notary Public?

A Notary Public is an official authorized by the government to perform acts of witnessing the signing of important documents and verifying the identity of the signers. This role is vital in ensuring that the documents are genuine, the parties involved are who they claim to be, and that they are entering into agreements willingly and without duress.

History and Evolution The history of notaries dates back to ancient Rome, where they were scribes who took notes and documented proceedings. Over the centuries, the role has evolved significantly. Today, notaries serve as impartial witnesses to important transactions, providing an additional layer of trust and authenticity in legal and financial dealings.

Types of Notarial Acts

• Acknowledgments: Confirms the identity of the signer and their willingness to sign.

• Jurats: Requires the signer to swear or affirm that the content of the document is true.

• Oaths and Affirmations: Formal promises to tell the truth.

• Copy Certifications: Verifies that a copy of an original document is accurate.

Why It Matters The primary function of a Notary Public is to deter fraud and protect the integrity of transactions. Whether it’s a real estate deal, a power of attorney, or a business contract, the involvement of a notary ensures that all parties have been properly identified and that they understand and agree to the terms of the document.

Keywords: Notary Public, legal documents, prevent fraud, real estate transactions, acknowledgments, jurats, oaths, affirmations.