Notary FAQs

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What is a Notary Public?

 

Notaries public are public officials commissioned by their respective Secretaries of State to serve the public as an impartial witness. In California, notaries public have to complete training, pass a written exam, undergo a background check and take an oath before they are commissioned by the Secretary of State. 

 

What Does a Notary Public Do?

 

Notaries public verify identity, determine willingness and awareness to sign, authenticate signatures and witness signing of important documents as well as administer oaths. Notaries public help prevent fraud.

 

How should I prepare for my notary appointment?

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Once you have scheduled your notary appointment, please ensure you appear in-person with valid identification to present to the notary. Your notary will ensure you have proper identification and that your identification is current. Next, your notary will ask you which notary certificate you require. Notaries are unable to recommend which notarial certificate you need so you should research which certificate (jurat or acknowledgment) you require. If you require a jurat, please ensure you DO NOT sign the document before you appear before a notary. If the document is signed prior to appearing before the notary for jurats, the notary will be unable to sign and stamp the notarial certificate. Ensure you (the signer) understand what you are signing and have the capacity to sign. The notary speaks English so the signer will be required to speak English. If the signer does not speak English, let the notary know in advance so she can refer you (the signer) to a notary that speaks the signer's language.

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What Documents Require Notarization?

 

Real estate documents such as home purchases/sells and refinances, Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOC), quit claim deeds, powers of attorney, contracts, adoption papers, letters of authorization, minor child passport application, consent to travel forms, certified copies of original powers of attorney, depositions, some apostille documents, affidavits and estate planning documents such as trusts are just a few documents requiring a notary public notarization. 

 

What Documents Can Not Be Notary Public Notarization?

 

In the state of California, notaries public can not notarize vital records such as birth, fetal or death certificates, marriage licenses or divorce decrees, court or federally-issued documents. These documents must be certified by the Secretary of State or the Department of State, as applicable. Wills can not be notarized, they are witnessed. For wills, please consult an attorney for instructions as I (notary public) am not authorized to provide legal advice. When you have all of your questions answered by an attorney and are ready to have your will witnessed, I can assist you at that time.