Public servants known as notaries act as witnesses to the signing of significant papers. When significant documents are signed, the state appoints a person of integrity known as a notary public to act as an unbiased witness for the public. For clients who want their documents notarized, the majority of banks and credit unions have a notary public on staff.
Read More: Utah Notary
What Are A Notary’s Responsibilities?
A notary public serves as an official state witness, thwarting fraud. The notary’s role is to ensure that all actions are completed correctly and that participants are willing by seeing the signing of documents or giving oaths. Notaries perform the following tasks and are only permitted to operate in the state in which they are appointed:
delivering affirmations and oaths in court and during the actual sworn-in ceremony.
keeping accurate records of their operations, as required by their state.
accepting affidavits and depositions, if such is their area of expertise.
Marital ceremonies performed in states where that’s legal.
Do Notaries Work in Banks? How Can I Locate a Notary Public?
If you need a document notarized, you can visit your neighborhood bank or credit union. Most have at least one licensed notary staff member who can assist you, and if you have a bank account, the service is frequently provided at no cost to you. Notaries may also be available for hire in shipping and office supply companies, and their services can be rendered for a charge.
When Is a Notary Required?
varying states have varying requirements for the kinds of transactions or activities that need to be notarized. Furthermore, certain jurisdictions could advise notaries for specific purposes but not mandate them. In any event, you will be informed whether a notary public is required by the person accepting the documents.
Notarizations are frequently used in court cases, municipal government operations, and official swearing-in ceremonies. A notary public could be required when drafting a will, appointing a power of attorney, or for specific bank or medical record documentation.
What Does Notarization Entail?
What to anticipate while getting anything notarized is as follows:
The concerned parties have to be present in person.
The document is examined to make sure it complies with state regulations and describes the kind of notarization needed.
The signers’ identities are confirmed by the notary. How is a signer identified by a notary? A notary may depend on firsthand information, identity documents, or the testimony of a reliable witness.
Notaries may also need to maintain particular records of the notarizations they do in some states.
What Should I Bring to the Notary Public Meeting?
The following items should be brought with you when you meet with a notary:
your ID from the government.
The documents need to be signed in the presence of the notary public.
The cash needed to cover any applicable fees.