How to Choose a Notary Public

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Finding the right person to stamp your documents doesn’t sound very hard. But not all notary publics are the same; the legal requirements have changed, and notary services have become more diversified. Here are some tips on choosing a state-appointed notary public, plus information on our notary services at OakTree Law.

What Does a Notary Public Do?

Most people envision a notary as someone who puts a seal on documents. While this is true, notaries perform a range of tasks. They can verify a signer’s identity, make sure they’re not under pressure to sign a document, and bear witness to a document’s signing. A notary can also administer an oath if one is required by the document. In addition, they can correct documents, add omitted items, and sign their name where it is required.

How to Choose a Notary Public

When you are seeking a notary, you want to consider the following:

Location

First, search for notaries in your local area. It’s best they are nearby, so you don’t have to spend much time traveling, spend on public transportation, or use a lot of gas. In most cases, hiring a notary across town or in a different city isn’t necessary. This would also waste time if you had to schedule a follow up meeting. Always look up their location or use a notary that is willing to travel to your location or provide online services.

Qualifications

Reviewing a notary’s credentials is usually simple. Their specializations are typically listed online, via a website, social media page, or business listing. Knowing the notary’s specialty is important; if you need a legal document notarized, you’ll want to find someone with some level of legal experience; the same is true for dealing with real estate documents. In many states, a notary public must complete educational courses pertaining to the area they work in, file documentation, and pay filing fees.

Memberships

Experienced notary publics are often members of national, state, and local professional associations. These organizations set standards for training, continuing education, and the number of hours worked. One of these is the National Notary Association, which has been providing training, supplies, and services since 1957.

Communication and Accessibility

A notary should be accessible and keep you informed of every step of the process. They should be available to answer your questions whether by phone or email, even if the services they offer may be only on a one-time basis. It’s essential a notary makes themselves available to clients who may need help on a moment’s notice. The line of communication should remain open in case you need to, for example, verify a signature or additional documents need attention.

Cost

Always ask about fees in advance so you know what you’re paying for. You can also check the Secretary of State’s website in your home state, which should include the cap on how much a notary can charge. Convenience fees may also apply if the notary offers more flexibility or the service requires additional administrative tasks. Mobile notaries may charge additional fees as well.

Call OakTree Law Today

Oaktree Law provides legal help for those with real estatebankruptcyforeclosure, business litigation, and estate planning issues, and our advocacy often necessitates notarization of important documents. We are a dependable legal firm you can be sure will handle your personal and professional documentation with appropriate care.

Our notary public in Los Angeles can assist you with any documentation that needs to be verified or notarized. We specialize in legal, real estate, and financial notary services, working with clients throughout Southern California. To learn more about the notary and other services we provide, call Oaktree Law at (888) 342-3237.