WHAT DO NOTARIES DO? (Virginia Edition)
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What Do Notaries Do? (Virginia Edition)
We’re impartial, state-commissioned officials who verify identity, confirm willingness, administer oaths, and complete certificates to help prevent fraud.Core Duties in Virginia
Acknowledgments
The signer confirms they voluntarily signed the document (often used for deeds or property documents).
Jurats (Oath/Affirmation)
The signer swears or affirms the contents are true, then signs in our presence (common for affidavits).
Copy Certification
We can certify a copy as a true, complete, and accurate reproduction—but not public records like birth or court certificates.
Affidavits/Depositions & Verifications of Fact
We complete notarial certificates for sworn statements and certain verifications permitted by Virginia law.
Impartiality: we can’t notarize where we—or our spouse—are a party or have a direct beneficial interest. We can explain notarial options, but we don’t provide legal advice.
Identity & Witnessing
- Identification: A valid government-issued photo ID is standard. In some cases, a credible witness who personally knows the signer may be used.
- Witnesses: Some documents require them. Ask the receiving party first; we’ll help plan logistics.
- Record Keeping: A paper journal for traditional notarizations is recommended best practice in Virginia.
Fees in Virginia
- Up to $10 per in-person notarial act.
- Up to $25 per Remote Online Notarization (RON).
- Travel fees (for mobile service) may be charged if reasonable and pre-agreed.
Local Use-Cases
- Fredericksburg: real-estate acknowledgment for a deed recordation.
- Stafford: sworn jurat for a small-claims affidavit.
- Spotsylvania: copy certification of a non-public business document for a vendor file.
Disclaimer: General information only; not legal advice.