FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
10 Frequently asked Questions.
1. What is a Notary?
A Notary Public is a state appointed individual who verifies a signer’s identity using approved identification and takes acknowledgment of the individual executing the document, or administers an oath witnessing the signing of the document. Notaries do not give legal advice or verify that documents are true or legally binding.
2. Do Notaries draft legal documents?
A Notary Public is forbidden from preparing legal documents or acting as a legal advisor. Violators may be fined and/or imprisoned for practicing law unauthorized.
3. What does a Notary Public charge?
The maximum fee per signature is $10 mandated by the State of Florida. The state does not impose the maximum a notary may charge for other fees. Travel and convenience fees are charged at their discretion. The cost of service will vary based on appointment location, distance traveled, and number of signatures notarized.
4. Why documents need to be notarized?
The Notary Public officiates the document signing process insuring the documents are signed correctly and that signers are knowingly and willingly entering into an agreement. Documents must contain the proper notarial wording and text committing the signer in some way.
5. Can an incomplete document be notarized?
Notarizing incomplete documents or those containing blank spaces is risky and unacceptable due to potential fraud. A Notary must ensure a document is complete with no missing information before proceeding with an assignment and shall refuse service otherwise.
6. Can a Notary decline to help me?
A Notary can refuse service if there's a reasonable suspicion that a transaction is unlawful, improper, or incomplete. Failing to provide acceptable identification at a signing appointment also serves as grounds to deny a notarization.
7. Can any document be notarized?
For a document to be notarized it must contain the proper notarial wording, text committing the signer, an original signature, and a completed certificate.
8. How does a notary verify the identity of the signer?
A notary will ask a signer for a document such as a driver’s license or government-issued identification card that includes a photograph, signature and some information describing the person.
9. Can a Notary Public prepare or assist in the preparation of any documents?
No, a notary public can only witness the signing of the documents, not assist or prepare any documents. To assist or prepare documents would be an unlawful practice of law. This keeps the notary’s position as an impartial witness to the signing.
10. Can a notary certify a copy of a document?
State laws may vary, but in general, no. For vital records documents such as birth certificates and marriage certificates, the requestor should visit the local agency that holds these documents, such as a local county clerk. There are some limited instances when a notary may certify a copy, but it is best to check with the notary of your state.