What is the effect of a notary's seal on a document?

The effect of a notary's seal on a document is significant because it serves as verification that the notarization process has been completed correctly. When a notary applies their seal to a document, it indicates that they have followed the necessary procedures to verify the identities of the signers and ensured that the signatures are genuine. This adds a layer of authenticity and trust to the document, reassuring all parties that the necessary legal steps have been observed.

The presence of the seal does not simply make the document aesthetically pleasing or decorative, nor does it directly confer legal binding status to the contents of the document. A document may still be legally binding based on its own merits regardless of notarization. Additionally, while a notarized document may indeed facilitate processing or acceptance, the seal's primary function is to confirm that proper notarization procedures were adhered to, thus establishing a legal standard of integrity for the document.