Are notaries liable for the contents of documents they notarize?

Notaries are not liable for the content of the documents they notarize because their primary role is to verify the identity of the signers and witness the signing of the document. The notary's duty is to ensure that the person signing the document is doing so willingly and is who they claim to be. They do not provide legal advice, nor do they assess or verify the truthfulness or accuracy of the information contained in the document.

The notarial act serves as a form of verification that the signature is authentic, but it does not extend to guaranteeing the legitimacy or legal sufficiency of the document itself. Therefore, if any disputes arise regarding the content of the document, the notary is generally shielded from liability related to those contents, as their function does not involve evaluating or endorsing the information within the document. This understanding is essential for notaries to operate effectively and within the bounds of their responsibility.