As a commissioned notary public serving clients across greater Boston, it is important that I have a clear understanding of both the role and limitations defined by my notary commission in Massachusetts. Strict adherence to state laws and procedures is required to perform notarizations legally and avoid any potential violations.
First and foremost, the law designates me as an impartial witness, not an advisor. I am not allowed to recommend or influence whether individuals should sign documents. My role is restricted to verifying the identity of signers and observing them execute signatures or acknowledgments.
I do not provide any legal, medical or contractual guidance as part of the notarization. Any questions from signers must be directed to the appropriate professionals. As an impartial witness, I also cannot notarize for any friends, family or myself due to potential conflicts of interest.
In terms of geographic limitations, the jurisdiction of my commission is also clearly defined. I am only authorized to perform notarial acts when physically present within Massachusetts borders. Notarizations cannot be witnessed across state lines, regardless of a client's needs or location.
It is also important that I do notarize only the specific signature related acts allowed by law, such as oaths, acknowledgments and jurats. I cannot provide services outside the scope of my commission, such as serving as a legal document preparer or translator.
Strictly adhering to both the role and territorial limitations of my commission protects the validity of notarizations I perform and ensures compliance with Massachusetts notary laws.