While many states require that notary publics only use their notary public supplies to carry out three or four duties, notary publics in Georgia are required to carry out seven duties under Georgia State Statue 45-17.
The Duties of a Georgia State Notary Public
According to Georgia State Statue, the first duty of notary publics using their Georgia notary supplies is to witness signatures on deeds and other written instruments.
Before signing their names and using their Georgia notary supplies to do this, however, the notary public should make sure that the person is who they say that they are, that they understand what they are saying and that they are competent to sign the document.The second duty is to take acknowledgements. If the notary is not personally familiar with the
individual they should ask for identification before agreeing to use their Georgia notary supplies. The notary public may wonder what will happen if they do not use their Georgia notary supplies, but their obligation is to the public.The third duty is to witness affidavits upon oath or to witness affidavits upon affirmations. These are witness statements that are made voluntarily. Therefore, it is important before any Georgia notary supplies are used that the notary public makes certain that the individual is making the statement of their own free will and is not being coerced to make the statement in any way. The fourth duty is very similar. The notary public may be called on to verify these oath or affirmations.
The sixth duty is to make certified copies of legal documents. Before agreeing to do this, the notary public must make sure that the document that they are using their Georgia notary supplies to certify is an original document. If there is any doubt in the notary public’s mind, then they should refuse to certify the document.
The seventh duty says that the state legislature can assign other duties to the notary public. Therefore, the notary public must keep abreast of the news and determine when these duties are assigned to them.
Where Can You Get the Supplies You Need to Fulfill Those Duties?
There are so many times that the notary public may be asked to use their Georgia notary supplies that it is vital to have good quality supplies. Therefore, it is important to deal with a reputable company like Acorn. Just like notary publics must keep abreast of the newest laws, you can trust Acorn to make sure that your Georgia notary supplies are always updated to meet the most recent laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Georgia notary public use Georgia notary supplies for any notarization?
No. Georgia notaries should only use their supplies when performing duties authorized by Georgia law, including witnessing signatures, taking acknowledgments, administering oaths or affirmations, certifying certain copies, and any other duties assigned by the state.
When should a Georgia notary check a signer’s ID before using a notary seal?
A Georgia notary should request identification whenever they are not personally familiar with the signer. Confirming identity is an important step before completing an acknowledgment or other notarization.
What should a Georgia notary confirm before witnessing a signature on a deed or other document?
Before using Georgia notary supplies, the notary should confirm the signer’s identity, willingness, and competence to sign the document, and make sure the signer understands what they are signing.
Can a Georgia notary witness affidavits and administer oaths or affirmations?
Yes. Georgia notaries may witness affidavits under oath or affirmation, but they should first make sure the person is acting voluntarily and is not being pressured to make the statement.
Can a Georgia notary certify copies of documents?
Yes, but only when the document is an original and the copy is eligible to be certified under Georgia law. If there is any doubt about the document or the copy, the notary should refuse.
Where can I get Georgia notary supplies that stay compliant with current laws?
It is best to purchase from a reputable notary supply company that keeps Georgia notary supplies updated to reflect current state requirements, so your seal and other tools remain compliant.
