A notary public is a public servant and officer of the state commissioned by the Texas Secretary of State. A notary public's primary duty is to serve as a disinterested party in authenticating the acts of a signing party. Per the Texas Secretary of State website:
- A notary public is not a notario or notario público (licensed to practice law in many Latin American countries).
- A notary public is not authorized to practice law.
- A notary public may not give legal advice or prepare legal documents.
- A notary public may not charge a fee for preparation of immigration documents or represent someone in immigration matters.
