What is required from the signer for a notary to perform a notarization?

For a notary to perform a notarization, it is essential that the signer presents a completed document. This is because the primary function of a notary is to verify the identity of the signer, witness the document being signed, and ensure that the signer is doing so willingly and without coercion. The completed document serves as the subject of the notarization and allows the notary to effectively perform their duties.

While other elements such as the presence of a witness or proof of residency may be relevant in some contexts, they are not universally required for notarization in Ohio. The notary must focus on the integrity of the document being executed and the identity of the signer to fulfill their responsibility properly. A legal certificate of authority is also not needed for a notarization; rather, the notary must be commissioned and authorized under state law to act. This underscores the importance of presenting a completed document as a primary requirement in the notarization process.