Can a notary in Georgia perform marriages?

While it is true that notaries in Georgia are primarily appointed to perform notarization functions, the correct understanding is that notaries cannot legally perform marriage ceremonies. Notaries are not given the authority to officiate weddings or marriages under Georgia law unless they are also ordained ministers or have received specific authorization.

In Georgia, the role of the notary is strictly to witness, authenticate, and verify signatures on documents and administer oaths. Marriages are legally recognized through officiants who possess the appropriate credentials. This delineation ensures that notaries focus on their designated notarial duties and adhere to the legal limitations imposed on their practice.

Therefore, the response correctly aligns with the understanding of notarial powers in the state of Georgia. The other options suggest different scenarios involving the authority or ability of notaries to perform marriages, which does not reflect the legal framework of notarial duties in this context.