Although the State of North Carolina does not require a notary public to complete a notary journal by law, it is considered “best practice” to maintain a notary journal to protect the notary public from lawsuits and potential liabilities.
Generally, contracts don't need to be notarized, as the signed contract itself is legally binding. However, if a potential legal dispute arises between the parties, having the contract notarized can be very beneficial. Having a notary will provide proof of the parties entering into the contract.
I, _____________________________, a Notary Public of County, , certify that ____________________________, personally appeared before me this day, and being duly sworn, stated that in his presence ________________________ (signed) (acknowledged the execution of) the foregoing instrument.
Only the North Carolina Secretary of State - Business Registration Division can issue North Carolina certified copies.
Is a notary allowed to certify a true copy of a document? No, a notary can't certify a document as a true copy.
In most cases, a notary public can only make certified copies of original documents. However, note that in some cases, like when the original document does not exist anymore, a notary can make or leave a note on the certified copy stating that it is “a photocopy of a photocopy.” You should know that state laws vary.
One of the most common mistakes that notaries make is not printing or signing their name exactly as it appears on their notary commission.
(3) The notary notarizes the signature by performing an acknowledgment, oath or affirmation, jurat, or verification or proof. (5) The notary notarizes the signature through an acknowledgment, oath or affirmation, jurat, or verification or proof.
Practice Tip: Do not ask a Notary Public to certify that something is a true copy of a document. The reason is that certifying true copies is not something North Carolina law allows notaries public to do.