A notary, also known as a notary public, is a licensed official who serves as a witness to the signing of important documents and administers oaths and affirmations. The primary role of a notary is to verify the identity of the signers and ensure they are willingly entering into agreements without coercion or misrepresentation. Notaries play a crucial role in legal transactions by certifying that documents are authentic and legally binding. They also help deter fraud by confirming the authenticity of signatures and ensuring the integrity of documents.

In addition to verifying identities and witnessing signatures, notaries may also perform other duties such as certifying copies of documents, administering oaths for affidavits, and handling real estate transactions. Their services are often sought after for various legal, business, and personal matters where document authenticity and integrity are paramount. Notaries are appointed by state governments and must adhere to strict guidelines and regulations to maintain the trust and reliability of their services.