“What is a Notary Public?”
According to the National Notary Association, a Notary is a public servant appointed by state government to witness the signing of important documents and administer oaths.
“Can a notary notarize if the signer doesn’t have identification?”
State laws vary on this point. Many states allow the notary to “personally know” the signer and notarize them without identification. Generally, a signer should have valid government issued identification such as a current drivers license, state ID, or passport. Some states allow credible witnesses to sign the notary journal and identify the signer.
“Can I be refused a notarization?”
A Notary Public may refuse to perform a notarization if he or she cannot be certain of a prospective signers identity, willingness, or understanding of what is happening at that moment. In addition, a notary may not notarize a document in which he or she has a financial interest.
“How may I schedule a signing?”
Contact us here.
“What does a Notary notarize?”
Any document that an originator needs to ensure integrity and identity of the signer. A notary public verifies the identity of the signer, and that they are signing knowingly and willingly. This process helps deter fraudulent execution of document.
“How does a Notary verify the identity of the signer?”
The signing person will need to provide a government-issued, photo identification such as a driver’s license or other identification card that includes a photograph, signature and some information describing the person.
“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 requester should visit the local agency that holds these documents, such as a local county clerk.
“What areas do you service?”
We service the following areas: Sugar Land, Missouri City, Fresno, Pearland, Friendswood, Richmond, Rosenberg, Southwest Houston, Southeast Houston.
“Can a notary notarize if the signer is not present?”
No, the signer must personally appear before the notary public.
“Can a Notary Public prepare or assist in the preparation of any documents?”
No, a Notary can only witness the signing of the documents, not assist or prepare any documents. This keeps the notary’s position as an impartial witness to the signing.
“Can a Notary Public prepare or notarize immigration papers?”
A Notary may notarize papers that require notarization such as the Affidavit of Support, but they may not prepare or file another person’s immigration papers unless he or she is an attorney or a US D.O.J. accredited representative.
“Who can be a credible witness?”
An uninvolved person (someone not mentioned in the document and not a family member). Neighbors and friends are commonly used. The biggest problem with credible witnesses is that they might know the signer as “Fred” and not really know what his middle initial or last name are.