subject: Many Employers Need A Notary Public [print this page] What does a notary public do, and why does my employer want to employ more of them? Frequently there are many legal documents that require a registered notary public in banks, legal firms and real estate offices. The process of becoming a notary public, in most states, is simple and straightforward; and becoming one makes you much more valuable to your employer. Your employer will appreciate your added value as a notary, and your resume always will look better with that extra item.
Most people are not familiar with exactly what a notary public is or what they do. Important legal documents require that an impartial witness be present when the signing takes place. The signers of a legal document agree, with a impartial notarizing witness present, that the facts are correct and they are in agreement. Notarization is necessary not only for day to day business functions, but also to help protect the general public from fraud. Deeds, mortgages, affidavits, real estate deeds, contracts and loans are all documents requiring notarization.
The notary stamp and the signature of the notary are proof of the willing signing of a contract. The document signers must verify their identity by presenting a drivers license to the notary. After their identity is verified and they sign the document, you put a notary jurat stamp on it, seal it and sign it. At the bottom of the document is the notary jurat stamp which contains the names of the signers, the date of the signing and the name of the witnessing notary. Legal advice should never be dispensed by a notary public except in the case where the notary is also a lawyer.
Here are a few tips to consider if youre thinking of becoming a notary public. Depending on what state you live in, there are different requirements for becoming a notary. A notary will normally only be certified to notarize documents in the state in which certification was granted.
The certification process for a notary in Van Nuys, California requires a background check, a class, a multiple choice test, and several fees. Other states have very lax requirements for becoming a notary. In many its no more difficult than getting a license to drive. Renewal procedures are generally very lenient. Notaries have a four year term in most states and need reappointment when their term expires. In Florida, to get a notary renewal, you just print the form, make a copy of your current or expired Florida notary license, send your proof of Florida residency and $95 to the Florida Notary Association.
