FAQ
Find the answers for the most frequently asked questions below
- What is a Notary Public?
A Notary Public is a state public officer appointed and commissioned by the Governor whose function is to: administer oaths, take acknowledgments of deeds and other instruments, attest to or certify photocopies of certain documents, and perform other duties specified by law.
- What’s an acknowledgement?
A notary acknowledgment is a sworn statement, usually attached to a legal document, that confirms the authenticity of the person signing.
- Is notarization required by law?
For many documents, yes. Some affidavits, and other documents, may not be legal or binding unless they are notarized.
- What do I need to have in my possession to do a notarization?
You MUST have a valid form of identification.
- Can you get a notarization without the person being present?
NO. Unless it is done online with a registered remote online notary like our practice.
- Can a notary also be a witness?
Yes. A notary can be both the witness and notary for the same document.
- What are the basic duties of a Notary? There are 6 basic duties of a notary:
There are 6 basic duties of a notary:
- Administer oaths or affirmations
- Take acknowledgements
- Attest to photocopies of certain documents
- Solemnize marriages
- Verify vehicle identification numbers (VINs)
- Certify the contents of safe deposit boxes
- What’s a Jurat?
A Jurat is a sworn statement attesting to facts as presented in the document.
- What is the most common mistake made by a notary?
Failing to require signers to be present at the notarization is the number one claim of misconduct against Notaries.
- What if I don’t have Identification for my notarization?
Simple. Just read the information here
- Can a Notary refuse service?
Absolutely. if the Notary is uncertain of a signer’s identity, willingness, or general competence, or has a good reason to suspect fraud.
- Can a Notary post the date a document for a different day?
NO. A Notary can not change the date or antedate any acknowledgement on a document.
- Why are documents notarized?
To detour fraud and to have an impartial witness.
- What’s an acknowledgement?
Generally just a few minutes. It depends on the amount of paperwork that you have.
- Is it legal to do Remote Online Notary or RON?
Yes, since January of 2021 it is completely legal in the state of Florida to do remote online notary.
- Is a Florida notary public authorized to perform a marriage?
Yes. Florida is only 1 of 3 states where a Notary can solemnize a marriage or perform a wedding.
- Can a notary notarize a foreign document?
YES. As long as the notary is confident that the signer can read and understand the document being signed.