Is a notary responsible for the accuracy of the contents of a document they notarize?

A notary's primary role is to serve as an impartial witness to the signing of documents and to ensure the identity and willingness of the signer. The notary is tasked with verifying that the person signing the document is who they claim to be and that they are doing so voluntarily, without coercion or duress. The notary does not investigate or guarantee the contents of the document itself; their duty does not extend to verifying the legality or accuracy of the information contained therein or providing any legal interpretations or advice about the document's implications.

This distinction is vital because it enables the notary to maintain neutrality and impartiality, which are essential characteristics of the notarization process. If notaries were required to ensure the accuracy of all contents, it would significantly complicate their responsibilities and could lead to liability issues. Thus, their obligation is strictly related to the signing authority rather than the substantive aspects of the document itself.