What is the primary purpose of a notary public?

The primary purpose of a notary public is to validate the authenticity of documents. This involves a notary public performing acts that help to ensure the integrity and legal credibility of the documents being executed. When a notary notarizes a document, they confirm that the individual signing the document is doing so willingly and understands the content of what they are signing.

While witnessing signatures and certifying identities are important functions that notaries perform, the broader responsibility centers on the validation of documents. By adding their official seal or stamp, notaries contribute to the legal acceptance of a document, providing assurance that it has been properly executed in accordance with the relevant laws. This validation helps prevent fraud and protects all parties involved in a transaction from potential disputes arising from improperly executed documents.

Providing legal advice falls outside the notary's role, as notaries are not licensed attorneys unless they hold another qualification. Their duties are strictly limited to acts of notarization, ensuring that they remain impartial and do not engage in the practice of law.