Who is responsible for performing notarizations correctly and consistently?

• A. Employer
• B. Notary
• C. Clerk of Superior Court
• D. State legislature

Answer: (B)

Notaries public are the ones entrusted with the integrity of each notarization. They are responsible for verifying the signer’s identity, confirming the signer’s willingness and understanding, witnessing the signing or acknowledgment, and then completing the notarial certificate and applying the seal. This responsibility rests with the person performing the act, who must follow Georgia law and the notary rules for every transaction.

The employer can provide training and oversight, but cannot substitute personal responsibility for correctness. The Clerk of Superior Court oversees the notary process, commissioning notaries and maintaining records, but does not perform the notarizations themselves. The state legislature creates the laws governing notaries, but it does not execute the acts. In short, the notary is accountable for performing notarizations accurately and consistently.