The prudent notary, however, will suggest that the testator seek legal advice before executing the will. Additionally, if the signer does not understand the will or the execution process, you should refuse to notarize the will. As the notary, you are not responsible for providing witnesses for the will but, if the will is prepared for witnesses, you should make sure that witnesses are present for the signing of the will and the notarization. If the will has the self-proof affidavit, the witnesses' signatures will also be notarized. That means that the testator and the witnesses must all personally appear before you to sign the document in your presence, take the appropriate oath, and present acceptable identification.
Many employers are concerned about their notary-employees notarizing certain types of documents.
Remember, employers may be held liable for any damages incurred as a result of an improper notarization performed by their notary-employees during working hours. For this reason, notaries at banks and other businesses are prohibited from notarizing wills for their customers or the public. Check with your supervisor to make sure your understand and follow the policy of your employer. Well, that's the story on wills. Exercise caution and follow the law when notarizing wills, and you can perform your notarial duties with confidence, satisfy your customers, and eliminate unwanted liability for yourself and your employer.