Written by Benjamin Kingsley

Do you have questions about or need assistance with a power of attorney? Please click here to email us at contact@legalandme.com.

Do you need a power of attorney form? We make a do-it-yourself power of attorney: finance power of attorney or healthcare power of attorney.

A power of attorney document typically requires notarization to be considered legally valid in most jurisdictions. The following individuals are generally authorized to notarize a power of attorney:

A licensed notary public is the primary professional who can notarize a power of attorney. Notaries are state-commissioned officials specifically empowered to witness signatures and administer oaths. It is important to note that while some lawyers may also be notaries, being a lawyer does not automatically qualify someone to notarize documents. A notary commission is a separate credential from a law license.

In some states, certain court clerks, judges, or other government officials may have notarial powers as part of their official duties. However, the vast majority of power of attorney notarizations are performed by commissioned notary publics. Individuals should check their state’s specific requirements, as notary qualifications and powers can vary somewhat between jurisdictions.

When having a power of attorney notarized, the person granting the power of attorney (the principal) must appear in person before the notary, provide proof of identity, and sign the document in the notary’s presence. The notary will then complete a notarial certificate attesting that these steps occurred. This notarization helps prevent fraud and ensures the authenticity of the power of attorney document.

Do you have questions about or need assistance with a power of attorney? Please click here to email us at contact@legalandme.com.

Do you need a power of attorney form? We make a do-it-yourself power of attorney: finance power of attorney or healthcare power of attorney.