What role does a notary play in the execution of a deed?

A notary plays a crucial role in the execution of a deed by authentically verifying the signatures of the parties involved. This process is essential to ensure that the signatures are genuine and that the individuals signing are doing so voluntarily and with an understanding of the document's implications. Notarization serves as a safeguard against fraud, as it provides a layer of trust and security to the transaction.

The notary's involvement helps establish the legitimacy of the deed, which is necessary for it to be recorded in the public records. This recording is important because it protects the interests of the parties involved and provides notice to others regarding the ownership of the property. The notary’s role does not encompass providing legal advice, distributing titles, or overseeing sales, as these tasks lie outside the traditional scope of notarization. Thus, the act of authenticating signatures is fundamental to ensuring that the deed is executed properly and can be relied upon in the future.