Things to Consider When Choosing a Notary Public

A notary public is a professional who is authorized by the government to act as an impartial witness in the signing of legal documents. They are responsible for verifying the identity of the signer, ensuring that they understand the content of the document they are signing, and administering oaths if necessary. Choosing the right notary public is crucial to ensure the validity of your legal documents. In this article, we will discuss some of the things you should consider when choosing a notary public.

Credentials

The first thing you should consider when choosing a notary public is their credentials. Notary publics are appointed by the state government and must meet certain requirements to qualify. You should ensure that the notary public you choose is licensed and in good standing with the state. You can check the notary public’s credentials online or by contacting the Secretary of State’s office.

Location

The location of the notary public is another important consideration. You want to choose a notary public who is conveniently located near you. This is especially important if you need to have documents notarized on short notice. You should consider choosing a notary public who is located close to your workplace or home.

Availability

The availability of the notary public is also important. You want to choose a notary public who is available when you need them. Some notary publics offer after-hours or weekend appointments, which can be convenient if you have a busy schedule. You should also consider the turnaround time for notarizing your documents. If you need your documents notarized quickly, you should choose a notary public who can accommodate your timeline.

Experience

The experience of the notary public is another important consideration. You want to choose a notary public who has experience notarizing the type of document you need to have notarized. For example, if you need to have a real estate document notarized, you should choose a notary public who has experience notarizing real estate documents. You should also consider the notary public’s experience in dealing with different types of clients, such as individuals, businesses, or government agencies.

Fees

The fees charged by the notary public are another important consideration. Notary publics are authorized to charge a fee for their services, but the fees can vary depending on the state and the notary public’s location. You should ask the notary public for their fee schedule before hiring them. You should also inquire about any additional fees, such as travel fees or rush fees, that may apply.

In conclusion, choosing the right notary public is crucial to ensure the validity of your legal documents. When choosing a notary public, you should consider their credentials, location, availability, experience, and fees. By considering these factors, you can choose a notary public who meets your needs and ensures the validity of your legal documents.