Legal Definitions - Notary

A notary is a public official who is authorized to witness and certify the signing of legal documents. They are responsible for verifying the identity of the signers and ensuring that they are signing the document voluntarily and without coercion.

When you buy a house, you will need to sign a lot of legal documents. A notary will be present to witness your signature and make sure that everything is done correctly. They will also stamp the documents with their official seal to show that they have verified your identity and witnessed the signing.

Another example is when you need to sign a power of attorney document. This is a legal document that gives someone else the authority to make decisions on your behalf. A notary will be present to witness your signature and make sure that you understand what you are signing.

These examples illustrate how a notary is an important part of the legal system. They help to ensure that legal documents are signed correctly and that everyone involved understands what they are signing.