Professor Closens Notary Best Practices

INTRODUCTION - This handbook is intended as a general guide and is designed to assist non-attorney notaries with the general requirements, duties, powers, limitations, liabilities, and legal significance of their actions as a notary public. Legal counsel should be consulted whenever specific problems or questions arise concerning any aspect of the office of notary public. THE NOTARY?S FUNCTION - A notary public is a public official whose powers and duties are defined by statute. A notary acts as an official, unbiased witness to the identity and signature of the person who comes before the notary for a specific purpose. The person may be taking an oath, giving oral or written testimony, or signing or acknowledging his or her signature on a legal document. In each case, the notary attests that certain formalities have been observed. The key function is to be certain that the person appearing before the notary is who that person claims to be.

This comprehensive guidebook equips aspiring and experienced notaries with extensive knowledge on notarial practices, procedures, and responsibilities. It covers core topics like the role of a notary public, specific notarial acts such as acknowledgments and jurats, handling of special situations and clients, legal compliance, best practices, and continued education. Step-by-step guidance is provided on performing notarizations, with chapters dedicated to processes for acknowledgments, jurats, copy certifications, proof of execution, signature witnessing, and recordkeeping. Special topics are addressed including loan signings, clients with special needs, language barriers, and remote online notarization. Emphasis is placed on understanding state-specific regulations, staying updated on law changes, following ethical codes, and avoiding legal pitfalls. The guide promotes continuous learning and professional development through valuable resources and notary organizations. While providing general guidance and principles, the book urges readers to consult their specific state/country laws and requirements. This book aims to empower notaries with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to perform their duties with integrity and professionalism, playing a crucial role in upholding trust and accuracy in legal transactions and documents.

The New York Notary Public Exam Review Guide gives you everything you need to prepare to ace the Notary Pubic Exam. This how to manual contains two full length practice exams, a solid glossary of legal terms, and insider tips about the exam site and exam content.