Notary Basics5 min read
Can a Notary Explain My Document? What Notaries Can and Can't Do
Florida notaries can't give legal advice. Learn what a notary can help with at a signing, and who to ask about your document's meaning.
It's natural to want someone to tell you what a document means before you sign. But a notary who isn't a Florida attorney is prohibited from giving legal advice — and that protects you.
What a notary can help with
A notary can:
- Point out where the notarial certificate is and where signatures are expected
- Tell you if the document looks incomplete (blank spaces) before notarizing
- Explain the notarization process, ID requirements and fees
- Identify a document by its title, e.g. "this is the deed"
What a notary can't do
A non-attorney notary can't:
- Explain what a document means or its legal consequences
- Tell you which form to use or which notarial act you need
- Fill in or draft legal documents for you
- Advise on immigration matters
Who to ask instead
Loan questions go to your lender or title agent; estate documents to your attorney; government forms to the issuing agency. Get answers before the appointment so the signing goes smoothly.
