What is the role of a notary public?

A notary public plays a vital role in the legal system by administering oaths and witnessing signatures. This function is essential for ensuring that documents are executed properly and that parties involved in a transaction are confirmed to have signed willingly and knowingly. The presence of a notary helps to prevent fraud and ensures that the interests of all parties are safeguarded.

In this capacity, a notary public certifies documents and verifies the identity of the signers, which adds a layer of legitimacy to various legal processes. This role is particularly important for documents such as wills, property deeds, and powers of attorney, where the authenticity of the signature can have significant legal implications.