What is the role of the New Jersey Secretary of State regarding notaries?

The role of the New Jersey Secretary of State in relation to notaries primarily involves overseeing the regulatory framework and administration of notarial practices. This includes establishing the guidelines under which notaries must operate, processing notary applications, and maintaining public records of notaries commissioned within the state. The Secretary of State ensures that notaries adhere to the law, which promotes integrity and trust in notarial acts.

Although the office may handle certain administrative tasks associated with notarial fees, this is only one aspect of a broader management responsibility. The Secretary of State does not act as a notary nor provides legal advice to notaries, as those roles are outside the scope of their duties. Essentially, the Secretary of State plays a critical oversight role, ensuring that the practice of notarization aligns with state laws and serves the public effectively.