The notarization of your documents is crucial to authenticate them for use in the eyes of the law. Whether you need power of attorney or you’re closing on a new home, you will require an official to witness proceedings.
You might already have an excellent attorney, but they likely won’t have the necessary training required to notarize documents. And while an attorney is there to represent the interests of their client, a notary is only concerned with the verification of documents.
Why do my documents need to be notarized?
There are three main reasons why you should have your legal documents notarized.
- To ensure you can be properly identified when you sign a document
- To ensure that you are signing the document under your own free will
- To ensure that third parties can verify the transaction at a later date
These steps are delivered by a notary public to prevent fraud and protect your rights. This is because once a document is notarized, it becomes admissible as concrete evidence in court.
How can a notary public help me?
A notary public acts as an impartial witness when you sign important documents such as deeds, contracts, affidavits and trusts. They will do this by verifying your identity and authenticating your signature.
On top of this, a notary can also administer oaths and affirmations. Legal proceedings in which you might need to swear an oath include signing for divorce or changing your birth name.
For more information about the role of a notary, read our blog Why Do You Need A Notary Public?
What can’t a notary public do?
When a notary public is helping to authenticate your signature, you may be tempted to ask them about the legal effects of your documents. However, only a qualified attorney is permitted to provide this kind of information. Remember that your notary public is present as an impartial witness.
Traditionally, if you need a notary public’s help, you’ll have to find one and then travel to meet them in person. They can’t usually provide home visits or mobile services.
That’s where A Legal Process Now comes in. We offer a hassle-free mobile notarization service, so you don’t have to plan a trip to your nearest notary public. Head to our services page to get started!