What is a Notary Public?

A Notary Public is a public servant appointed by state government to witness the signing of important documents and administer oaths.

Why are documents notarized?

To deter fraud. An impartial witness (the notary public) ensures that the signers of documents are who they say they are and not impostors. The notary public makes sure that signers have entered into agreements knowingly and willingly.

Does notarization mean that a document is "true" or "legal" ?

No. Notaries are not responsible for the accuracy or legality of documents they notarize. A Notary Public certifies the identity of signers. The signers are responsible for the content of the documents.

May a Notary prepare or notarize immigration papers?

Only a few immigration forms must be notarized, such as the Affidavit of Support (1-134, I-864), but the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) regulations state that no one may prepare or file another person''s immigration papers unless he or she is an attorney or a U.S. Department of Justice-approved "accredited representative." A Notary Public may provide clerical, secretarial or translating assistance with INS forms as long as they do not provide legal advice, and then may notarize these forms.