The Secretary of State for Arizona records and maintains notary public commissions. A notary public witnesses signatures and verifies identities of signers and must be impartial.
Every state commissions notaries; however, every state allows notaries to perform different functions. In Arizona, notaries can perform only acknowledgments, jurats, copy certifications, and oaths and affirmations.
A notary public serves as an official, impartial witness appointed by a state government to verify identities, prevent fraud, and witness the signing of important documents.
Core Duties
- Verifying Identity: Checking official government photo IDs (like a driver’s license or passport) to confirm the signer is who they claim to be.
- Checking Willingness and Competence: Ensuring the person is signing voluntarily and understands what they are doing, without being forced or mentally impaired.
- Administering Oaths: Leading signers through formal verbal oaths or affirmations when a document requires a statement to be made under penalty of perjury.
- Signing and Stamping: Applying an official signature, seal, or stamp to complete the notarization and make the document legally binding.
Common Documents Handled
- Real estate deeds, mortgages, and loan closing packages
- Powers of attorney and healthcare directives
- Wills, trusts, and estate plans
- Affidavits and depositions
