Notarizing

Notarizing is the act of officially certifying a legal document by a notary public. The purpose of having a legal document notarized is to ensure the authenticity of signatures that appear on the document.

The responsibilities of notarizing a document are:

• Verify the signatures only. In some cases the notary can administer the oath so the person can sign under the oath and ensuring that the person who signs the document is who they say they are.

3 ways to verify the signers identity:

• Personal Knowledge
• Credible witness
• Identification card or papers

The process to becoming a notary:

• Decide whether you want the legal training
• Determine whether your criminal record could leave you ineligible
• If you are applicable, find out whether your state requires any notary classes before you apply.
• Take the state-mandated notary exam
• Check with your state to officials to determine who is responsible for your licensing
• Apply and await an acceptance or rejection from the appropriate state department
• Comply with all laws of your state as they apply to the Notary
• Market yourself by equipping yourself with your states tools