What Does a Notary Do?

You have been told you need to "get something notarized," but what does that actually mean? A notary public performs several important functions that help keep legal transactions honest and legitimate. This guide explains exactly what a notary does in practical, easy-to-understand terms.

The Core Job of a Notary

At its most basic, a notary public serves as an impartial third-party witness. Their job is to verify that the person signing a document is who they say they are, that they are signing voluntarily, and that they understand what they are signing. The notary then places their official stamp and signature on the document, giving it legal weight.

Think of a notary as a fraud-prevention officer for important paperwork. Their involvement makes it much harder for someone to forge signatures, impersonate others, or claim they were forced to sign something against their will.

Specific Services a Notary Provides

Acknowledgments

This is the most common notarial act. In an acknowledgment, the signer appears before the notary and acknowledges that they voluntarily signed the document and that the signature is theirs. The signer does not need to sign in front of the notary — they just need to confirm the signature. Acknowledgments are used for property deeds, powers of attorney, and many business documents.

Jurats (Sworn Statements)

A jurat is more involved than an acknowledgment. The signer must sign the document in the notary's physical presence and take an oath or affirmation swearing that the document's contents are true. This is required for affidavits, depositions, and other documents where truthfulness is critical.

Oaths and Affirmations

A notary can administer oaths (which invoke a higher power) or affirmations (which are secular) for various purposes. This is used in court proceedings, government filings, and anywhere a person needs to formally commit to telling the truth.

Copy Certifications

In California, notaries can certify copies of powers of attorney and certain other documents. They verify that a copy is a true and accurate reproduction of the original. Note that California notaries cannot certify copies of vital records like birth certificates — that must be done by the issuing agency.

The Step-by-Step Notarization Process

Here is what happens during a typical notarization appointment:

1. Personal appearance: You appear before the notary in person. California requires physical presence for most notarial acts.
2. Identity verification: The notary checks your government-issued photo ID. Acceptable IDs include a current California driver's license, U.S. passport, or state ID card.
3. Document review: The notary reviews the document to ensure it is complete and ready for notarization. They check for blank spaces that should be filled in and verify the correct notarial certificate is attached.
4. The notarial act: Depending on the type of notarization, you either acknowledge your signature or sign in the notary's presence and take an oath.
5. Journal entry: The notary records the transaction in their official journal, including your name, date, type of document, type of ID, and your thumbprint.
6. Stamping and signing: The notary completes the notarial certificate, applies their official stamp, and signs the document.

What a Notary Cannot Do

Understanding the limitations of a notary is just as important as understanding their services:

• Provide legal advice: A notary cannot tell you whether a document is in your best interest or explain legal terms. For that, consult an attorney.
• Prepare legal documents: Unless they are also a licensed attorney, a notary cannot draft contracts, wills, or other legal documents.
• Notarize without the signer present: California law requires the signer to appear in person before the notary.
• Notarize an incomplete document: A notary can and should refuse to notarize a document with blank spaces intended to be filled in later.
• Certify vital records: Notaries cannot certify copies of birth certificates, death certificates, or marriage certificates.

Where to Get Documents Notarized in Los Angeles

In a city as large as Los Angeles, you have plenty of options. Banks, shipping stores, and law offices all offer notary services. For the ultimate convenience, a mobile notary will come directly to you. Whether you are in Downtown LA, Beverly Hills, or Long Beach, there is a qualified notary nearby.

Use our free notary directory to find a professional in your area. Learn more about how much notarization costs before your appointment.