What is one of the primary roles of a notary public?

One of the primary roles of a notary public is to verify the authenticity of signatures. This responsibility is crucial in ensuring that the identities of individuals signing documents are confirmed and that the signatures represent the true intent of the signers. By witnessing signatures and confirming the identity of the signers through valid identification, notaries help prevent fraud and maintain the integrity of legal documents.

The significance of this role lies in the trust placed in notaries as impartial witnesses. Their certification adds a layer of credibility to documents such as contracts, property deeds, and wills. This verification process ensures that all parties involved can be confident that the signatures are genuine, which is essential for the enforceability of these documents in legal settings.