New Jersey Notary Practice Exam

Who owns the stamping device used by a notary public?

1. The employer of the notary public

2. The notary public, regardless of who paid for it

3. The state government

4. The client requiring notarization

The correct answer is: The notary public, regardless of who paid for it

The stamping device used by a notary public is owned by the notary public themselves, regardless of who paid for it. This ownership is essential because it emphasizes the personal responsibilities and ethical obligations of the notary. A notary public is entrusted with the authority to perform certain official acts, including witnessing signatures, and the stamping device is a crucial part of that authority. Therefore, it is essential that the notary has exclusive control over their own stamp to prevent misuse or fraudulent activities. This ownership also highlights the independence of the notary public as a licensed official, ensuring that they are accountable for their actions and the validity of the notarizations they perform. Although an employer might provide financial assistance for the purchase of the stamping device, the notary retains ultimate ownership, which is not transferable to others, such as clients or even the employer. This structure ensures that the integrity of the notarization process is maintained, as only the notary can use their own stamp to notarize documents.