What Happens After a Document Is Notarized?
Most people know what a notary does during a signing — verify identity, witness a signature, and apply a seal. But many clients don’t know what happens after their document is notarized. Depending on the document type, notarization may be only the first step in a longer legal process. Some documents go to the county […]
Why Notaries Record Information in a Journal
A notary journal is one of the most important tools a notary uses — even in states where it is not required by law. Whether a notarization is done in person or online, keeping accurate records helps protect the signer, the notary, and the integrity of the document. Here’s why notaries maintain journals and why […]
Can a Notary Notarize for Family Members?
Clients often ask one of the most common notary questions:“Can a notary notarize a document for a family member?” The answer depends on state law, but even in states where it may be technically allowed, it is almost always discouraged because of conflict-of-interest concerns. Notaries must stay neutral — and notarizing for family members can […]
Notarizing Wills & Trusts: State-by-State Rules
Wills and trusts are some of the most sensitive estate planning documents people sign. But here’s a common misconception: 👉 Not every state allows wills to be notarized.👉 Not every state requires notarization for validity.👉 Trusts and wills follow completely different rules. This guide breaks down state-by-state rules, explains when notarization is optional, required, or […]
When You Need Witnesses — And When You Don’t
Not every notarized document requires a witness — and not every state treats witnesses the same way. While many U.S. states do not require witnesses at all, states like Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina have unique rules for certain documents such as wills, deeds, and powers of attorney. Understanding when witnesses are required helps prevent […]
Notarizing Documents for LLCs and Corporations
Business documents often carry major financial, legal, and operational consequences. That’s why LLCs, corporations, and other business entities frequently rely on notaries to validate signatures, confirm identity, and ensure that the right person is signing on behalf of the company. Whether you’re finalizing a partnership agreement, signing a board resolution, or executing a financial contract, […]
How Notaries Prevent Identity Theft
Introduction Identity theft is one of the fastest-growing crimes in the United States — especially in real estate, banking, estate planning, and financial transactions.Fortunately, notaries serve as one of the strongest lines of defense against fraud by verifying identity, documenting signings, and ensuring that every signature is genuine and voluntary. Here’s how notaries protect you, […]
Why Notaries Can’t Give Legal Advice (Unauthorized Practice of Law)
Notaries play an essential role in verifying identity, preventing fraud, and witnessing signatures. But unlike attorneys, notaries are not allowed to give legal advice, interpret documents, or help clients fill out legal forms. Doing so is considered the Unauthorized Practice of Law (UPL) — a serious violation that can result in penalties for the notary […]
The Benefits of Using a Mobile Notary for Title Transfers
Title transfers are an essential part of any real estate or property transaction — whether you’re buying a home, transferring ownership between family members, or updating a title after a life event. Because title documents are legal records that must be accurate and notarized correctly, many people are turning to mobile notaries for a faster, […]