What is a Notary Public?

History of the Notary Public

The history of the notary public dates back to ancient civilizations, where notaries played a crucial role in authenticating documents and transactions. The first recorded use of the term "notary" dates back to the 12th century in England. Over the centuries, this role evolved into what we now know as the notary public.

All the way back in 2500 BCE, the "scribes" or "sekhem" were responsible for recording and authenticating documents related to land ownership, trade, and commerce. Near 500 BCE, the name "scriba publicus" or "public scribe" emerged, and they were responsible for drafting and recording official documents, including wills, contracts, and property transfers.

During the Middle Ages, the role of notaries evolved to include the authentication of documents, particularly in the context of trade and commerce. During the 16th century, the concept of notary publics became more widespread in Europe, particularly in Italy and Spain. In England, the Notaries Public Act of 1540 established the office of notary public. In 1647, the first US notaries were appointed by the Massachusetts Bay Colony.

In the United States, the Federal Notary Act of 1886 standardized the requirements for notary publics across the states. By the 19th century, notary publics had become an essential part of the legal system in many countries. During the 1970's because of the rise of electronic signatures and digital document authentication, there was an increased importance of notary publics in verifying identities and authenticating documents.

The 1961 Hague convention was established, and it abolished the requirement of legalization for foreign public documents and established a way for nations to authenticate public documents without having to enact legislation. There are currently 126 members of the Hague Apostille Convention. The United States joined in 1981.

Today, notary publics are recognized in many countries around the world. Notary publics play a vital role in verifying the identity of individuals signing documents, authenticating documents through signatures or seals, administering oaths/affirmations, and ensuring that documents are legally compliant with relevant laws or regulations. Notaries also serve as impartial witnesses, ensuring that documents are signed voluntarily and with understanding.

Their presence brings a sense of credibility and trust to the legal process. With their expertise and attention to detail, notaries help the community by preventing fraud and promoting the validity of legal documents. They play a vital role in ensuring that our legal system operates smoothly and maintains the highest standards of integrity.

Using an experienced notary public is of utmost importance to ensure the validity and legality of your documents. Whether it's a real estate transaction, a will, or a power of attorney, certain documents require notarization to protect all parties involved. When using one of our traveling notaries, you can be assured of a superior service that brings convenience right to your doorstep. Our mobile notaries possess extensive experience in handling various types of documents, guaranteeing accuracy and attention to detail. They understand the significance of proper notarization. With their expertise, you can trust that your documents will comply with all legal requirements. Don't underestimate the value of an experienced notary public when it comes to safeguarding your legal matters.

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