One of the most common misconceptions about notarization is that once a document receives a notary’s stamp, the document becomes “legal.” That is not what notarization does. A notary seal does not automatically make a document legal, valid, binding, or enforceable. It also does not mean that the notary has reviewed the document, approved its contents, or determined whether it will accomplish what the signer intends. So, if notarization does not make a document legal, what exa

You’ve heard it before: “I just need this notarized.” But notarization involves much more than signing a document and getting a stamp. A Notary Public verifies identity, helps protect against coercion, may administer oaths, and completes the required notarial act—all while remaining impartial. So, what does a notary actually do, and just as importantly, what can’t they do? Let’s take a look behind the seal.