Legal Definitions - Notary public

Notary public

A notary public is someone who is given permission by the state to do certain tasks that require an unbiased third party. These tasks include:

• Taking an oath
• Certifying documents
• Vouching for the authenticity of signatures

When someone needs to take an oath, like when they are testifying in court, a notary public can be there to make sure they are telling the truth. When someone needs to certify a document, like a copy of their birth certificate, a notary public can verify that it is a true copy. When someone needs to sign an important document, like a contract, a notary public can witness the signature and make sure it is really the person who is supposed to be signing it.

Overall, a notary public is an important person who helps make sure that important tasks are done correctly and honestly.