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  • Writer's pictureSusan Conger

The Notary Public’s Role In Helping Curtail Fraud

As a notary public, one is responsible for verifying the identities of those who sign legal documents, witnessing those signatures, and affixing an official seal to the documents. This process is fundamental in preventing document fraud and has a significant impact on the level of protection granted to the public when dealing with legally-binding documents.


All notaries must adhere to strict guidelines and ethical standards set forth by their state. These standards serve to ensure that notary publics comply with proper procedures and maintain a high level of professionalism and integrity. An experienced notary public not only understands the importance of their role but also has acquired the necessary knowledge and expertise required to identify and prevent fraud. From examining identification documents to verifying information, an experienced notary public can quickly spot any red flags during the verification process. 


Furthermore, an experienced notary public ensures that the signers are of mental capacity to sign, without being unduly pressured by others to execute the document, and has the opportunity review and agree to the terms and conditions outlined in the document. By doing so, they protect individuals from making uninformed decisions or being misled into signing something that they don't willingly choose to do.


In conclusion, the role of an experienced notary public is irreplaceable when it comes to protecting the public from document fraud. By properly verifying identities, thoroughly examining legal documents, and ensuring that signers are cognizant and not under duress to complete the documents they sign, notaries create a safer, more secure legal system for everyone involved.

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