What are the duties of a Notary?
Key Duties of a Notary Public in Nevada
Verify Identity: One of the primary responsibilities of a notary public is to verify the identity of the signers. This is typically done by checking a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport.
Witness Signatures: The notary public must be physically present to witness the signing of the document. This ensures that the person signing the document is who they say they are and is doing so willingly.
Administer Oaths and Affirmations: A notary public in Nevada can administer oaths and affirmations, which are formal promises to tell the truth under penalty of perjury. This is often required for affidavits and other legal documents.
Take Acknowledgments: This involves the notary public confirming that the person signing the document has acknowledged that they executed the document. This is a common requirement for deeds, mortgages, and other property-related documents.
Certify Copies: In some cases, a notary public can certify that a copy of an original document is a true and accurate reproduction. However, this does not apply to all types of documents; for instance, vital records (birth, marriage, and death certificates) must be certified by the issuing agency.
Keep Records: Nevada notaries are required to maintain a journal of all notarial acts they perform. This journal must include details such as the date of the notarial act, the type of document, the names of the signers, and the type of identification provided.
Use of Official Seal: Every notary public must use an official seal to complete the notarization. This seal includes the notary’s name, the words “Notary Public,” the State of Nevada, and the expiration date of their commission. The seal helps to authenticate the document.
