Notary FAQ
How much can a Notary Public charge me? In California, the maximum fee a Notary Public may charge is $15 per notarized signature, this rate is set by the state. However, additional fees for services such as mobile travel, printing, shipping, parking, and after-hours appointments are not regulated, and notaries are permitted to set their own rates for these services. For example, if a notary offers only in-office services without any added convenience (like at a UPS Store), they can only charge up to $15 per signature. For mobile or specialized services, fees may vary based on location, timing, and service complexity.
Why is Notarization Important? Certain documents must be notarized to be legally valid, especially when an oath is required, such as in real estate transactions. Other documents, like trusts, deeds, powers of attorney, and affidavits, also often require notarization. Even when it’s not legally required, notarization provides an added layer of security. It verifies the signer’s identity, confirms their willingness to sign, and helps prevent fraud. For businesses and organizations that can’t witness a signature in person, a notarized document provides confidence that the person who signed it was properly identified and signed it themselves.
Can a Notary Public Refuse Service? Yes, there are certain circumstances when a Notary Public may refuse to notarize a document. A notary must decline service if: -The signer cannot provide proper identification, -The document is not legally eligible for notarization, or -The signer is unable or unwilling to pay the required fee. However, if all legal requirements are met, including valid identification and payment, the Notary Public is legally obligated to provide their services. As a public officer, a notary may face fines or have their commission revoked for unjustly refusing to perform their duties.
Are You a “Notario Público”? No. While the literal Spanish translation for “Notary Public” is “Notario Público,” California notaries are not “Notario Públicos.” In many countries, a “Notario Público” is a legal professional, similar to a lawyer, who has broad legal authority. This is very different from the role of a California Notary Public, which is limited to verifying identities and witnessing signatures. It is important not to confuse the two. In fact, it is illegal for a California Notary Public to refer to themselves as a “Notario Público” or imply they have the authority of a lawyer.
Wedding FAQ
How do I get a California Marriage License? To get married in California, couples must first obtain a marriage license from a county clerk’s office. You may apply at any county clerk’s office in the state, there is no requirement to apply in your county of residence or where the wedding will take place. Once issued, the license is valid anywhere in California. In most counties, the only documentation required is valid identification for both parties. If a valid ID is not available, some counties will accept an affidavit from a credible witness. A few counties may also ask for birth certificates. Both parties must appear in person to pick up the license. If either person has been married before, they will need to provide proof of divorce or annulment. California law does not require a blood test. A filing fee applies, which varies by county.
How do I apply for a Marriage License? When applying for a marriage license in California, it’s important to select the correct type of license based on the officiant. If the ceremony will be conducted by an ordained minister, you must obtain a license for a religious ceremony, even if no specific religious elements are included in the service. For ceremonies officiated by a judge, justice of the peace, or similar official, a license for a civil ceremony is required. Once issued, the marriage license is valid immediately, couples may marry on the same day. However, the license expires 90 days after it is issued. The ceremony must take place within this timeframe. After the wedding, the signed license must be returned to the county clerk within 10 days for proper filing.
How do I complete the marriage process? After the ceremony, only a few important steps remain. The officiant must complete the license by filling in their title as “Minister” and writing their full legal name (without titles) in the appropriate sections. If the form asks for the name of the ordaining church, the officiant should list “Universal Life Church Ministries.” It’s also recommended that the officiant keep a personal record of the ceremony in case any legal questions arise later. Before submitting the license, the couple and the officiant should carefully review it to ensure all details are accurate and complete. Once verified, the couple must return the license to the same county clerk’s office where it was issued, within 10 days of the ceremony. If the license contains errors or is not returned within the required timeframe, a new license will need to be issued, and additional fees may apply.