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Writer's pictureDonna Rosato

What is a Notary Public and why are they important?

Updated: Dec 11, 2023



Notary Public
Notary Public

Notary Public- What are they and why are they Important? Notaries public are important figures in our legal system, but they often go unnoticed. They play a vital role in ensuring the integrity of legal documents and protecting individuals from fraud. 



What is a notary public?

A notary public is a public official who is authorized by the state to witness the signing of legal documents and verify the identities of the signers. They also have the authority to administer oaths and affirmations.


Why are notary publics important?

Notaries publics are important for several reasons. They help to:

  • Prevent fraud: By verifying the identities of the signers, a notary public helps to prevent individuals from forging signatures or impersonating others.

  • Protect individuals: a notary public helps to ensure that individuals understand the documents they are signing and that they are entering into agreements voluntarily.

  • Lend credibility to documents: A notarized document is more likely to be accepted by courts and other official bodies.


What should I have with me during a notary appointment?

When you go to a notary appointment, you will need to bring:

  • The document you need notarized: This could be a deed, power of attorney, affidavit, or other legal document.

  • Valid identification: You will need to show the notary a valid government-issued ID, such as a driver's license or passport.

  • The fee: Notaries public charge a fee for their services. The fee will vary depending on the travel time, state, and the type of document you need notarized.

Tips for working with a notary public

Here are a few tips for working with a notary public:

  • Make an appointment: This will help to ensure that the notary is available when you need them.

  • Bring all of the required documentation: This will save time and prevent any delays.

  • Be prepared to answer questions: The notary may ask you questions about the document you need notarized. Notaries public do not need to know all the intricate details of the document, but they do need to know the signer understands what they are signing and are signing the document of their own free will.

  • Bring Instructions: If instructions were included with your documents, give them to the Notary Public. This will give clarity to some things that the notary will need to know.

  • Be polite and respectful: The notary is a professional, and they deserve to be treated with respect.



Notaries public are important members of our legal system. They play a vital role in ensuring the integrity of legal documents and protecting individuals from fraud. If you need to have a document notarized, call NJ Notary To Go. We provide convenient services tailored to your needs. We meet you at a place of your convenience or can provide remote online notarization. For more info, click here.


**I am not an attorney licensed to practice law and may not give legal advice about immigration or any other legal matter or accept fees for legal advice. The information contained above is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.






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