What is the primary role of a Notary Public?

The primary role of a Notary Public is to witness signatures and authenticate documents. This involves certifying that the individuals signing a document are doing so willingly and under their own free will, as well as ensuring that the signers are who they claim to be. This process typically includes verifying identification and keeping a record of the notarization in a journal.

This function is essential because notarization helps prevent fraud by making it more difficult for someone to forge a signature or falsely claim they have witnessed the signing of a document. The notarization process often involves affixing the official notary seal, which signifies that the document has been properly witnessed and is legally binding.

While providing legal advice, managing financial transactions, or representing clients in court are important legal and financial services, these roles are outside the scope of what a Notary Public is authorized to do. A Notary Public's duties are focused specifically on witnessing signatures and validating the authenticity of documents, which is integral in legal and business transactions.