state notary laws

State notary laws govern the practice of notaries public, individuals authorized to witness and authenticate the signing of documents. These laws vary by state but generally require notaries to be impartial witnesses and to verify the identity of signers. Notaries may charge fees for their services and must maintain accurate records of their activities. Each state has specific regulations on how notaries conduct business, including requirements for training, testing, and the use of official seals. The primary goal is to prevent fraud and ensure the legality of important documents, such as contracts and affidavits.