When it comes to legal documents, people often wonder: Do I need a notary public or a lawyer? Both play important roles, but their responsibilities are very different.
Knowing when to call a notary and when to call a lawyer can save you time, money, and frustration.
What Does a Notary Public Do?
A notary public is a state-commissioned official whose job is to:
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Verify the signer’s identity
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Witness signatures on documents
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Administer oaths and affirmations
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Complete notarial certificates
A notary does not provide legal advice or draft documents. Their role is to deter fraud and ensure the integrity of your paperwork.
What Does a Lawyer Do?
A lawyer (or attorney) is a licensed professional who can:
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Provide legal advice and guidance
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Draft and review legal documents
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Represent clients in court
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Interpret and apply the law
Lawyers go beyond witnessing signatures they help you understand the legal consequences of what you’re signing.
When to Use a Notary Public
Call a notary when you need to authenticate a signature on documents such as:
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Powers of attorney
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Real estate deeds and mortgages
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Loan documents
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Affidavits
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Medical directives
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Business contracts
When to Use a Lawyer
Call a lawyer when you need legal expertise and advice, especially for:
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Drafting wills, trusts, or estate plans
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Handling divorces or custody agreements
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Reviewing complex business contracts
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Representing you in disputes or court cases
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Interpreting your rights and obligations under the law
Can You Need Both?
Yes! In many cases, you may need both a lawyer and a notary.
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Example: A lawyer may draft your power of attorney, but a notary must notarize your signature for it to be valid.
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Example: A real estate attorney may prepare closing documents, but a notary ensures they’re properly executed.
Final Thoughts
The difference is simple: lawyers advise, notaries verify. If you need legal guidance, hire a lawyer. If you just need to ensure a document is signed properly and fraud-free, a notary public is the right choice.
At Looking Glass Notary, we provide professional notarization services you can trust making sure your important documents are legally recognized and secure.
