Most lawyers are not notaries, and being a lawyer does not automatically make someone a notary public
A lawyer and a notary public are two separate credentials. A lawyer has studied law, passed the bar exam in their state, and is licensed to give legal information and represent clients in court. A notary public is someone trained to witness signatures, verify identities, and stamp documents — a much narrower role that requires no law degree. The two jobs overlap in some states, but they are not the same thing, and one does not come with the other.
Some lawyers do become notaries, but they have to go through the notary process separately. They take a notary course, pass a notary exam, and pay a fee to their state — just like anyone else. A lawyer's law license does not waive these steps. In fact, many lawyers never become notaries because notary work falls outside what they do for clients.
Key Takeaways
- A lawyer's license and a notary public commission are two separate credentials that require different training and exams.
- Some lawyers are notaries, but only if they completed the notary process independently of their law license.
- If you need a document notarized, you cannot assume your lawyer can do it unless you ask first.
- Banks, title companies, and UPS stores often have notaries on staff, and many charge less than a lawyer would.
Why some lawyers become notaries and some do not
A lawyer might become a notary if their practice involves documents that need notarization — real estate closings, loan signings, or powers of attorney. For those lawyers, having a notary commission makes their work faster and keeps clients in one place. But a lawyer who handles only courtroom cases, contracts, or legal information has no reason to become a notary. The credential adds no value to their practice.
Becoming a notary also costs money and time. Most states charge between $50 and $200 for a notary commission, require a course or study guide, and make you pass an exam. Some states require a background check or bonding. A busy lawyer may decide the cost and paperwork are not worth it, especially if they rarely need to notarize documents.
How to learn about your lawyer is a notary
The only way to know is to ask. Call your lawyer's office and say you need a document notarized. They will tell you whether someone in the office can do it. If they cannot, they will usually refer you to someone who can — often a title company, bank, or notary service nearby.
If you are looking for a notary and do not have a lawyer, do not assume you need one. Banks, credit unions, UPS stores, and FedEx locations almost always have notaries on staff. Many charge $5 to $15 per signature. Some libraries and county clerk offices offer notary services for free or a small fee. A notary service or mobile notary can come to you if you need the document signed at home or work.
When you might want a lawyer instead of just a notary
A notary can witness your signature and verify that you are who you say you are. That is all they can do. They cannot give you legal information, tell you whether a document is fair, or explain what you are signing. If you need any of those things, you need a lawyer, not just a notary.
For example: a notary can notarize a power of attorney form, but only a lawyer should advise you on what powers to grant and to whom. A notary can notarize a deed, but a lawyer should review it to make sure the property description is correct and your interests are protected. A notary can notarize a loan document, but a lawyer can explain the terms and flag problems you might miss.
State rules that affect whether a lawyer can notarize
A few states have rules that prevent lawyers from notarizing certain documents or documents for their own clients. For example, some states say a notary cannot notarize a document for someone they have a financial interest in — which could include a client paying them a legal fee. Other states have no such rule. If you need a lawyer to notarize something, ask whether your state allows it.
Most states also require a notary to be physically present when you sign. A notary cannot notarize a document you signed weeks ago, and they cannot notarize something you sign over video or email. If your lawyer is a notary, they can only notarize documents you sign in front of them in person.
The cost difference between a lawyer and a notary
A notary charges $5 to $20 per signature in most places. A lawyer charges much more — often $100 to $300 per hour, or a flat fee of $200 to $500 for a straightforward notarization. If you only need a signature witnessed, a notary is faster and cheaper. If you need legal information along with the notarization, a lawyer is the right choice, and the higher cost reflects the legal work, not the notary part.
Some lawyers will notarize a document for free if you are already paying them for legal work on the same matter. Ask whether that is an option. But if you are shopping for someone to notarize a single document, start with a bank, notary service, or UPS store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a lawyer notarize a document for their own client?
It depends on your state. Some states allow it; others restrict it or require the lawyer to disclose the conflict. Ask your lawyer or your state bar association before assuming it is allowed.
What if I need a lawyer to review a document and notarize it?
You can hire a lawyer to do both. They will charge you for the legal review and information, and then notarize the document as part of that work. This is common for wills, powers of attorney, and real estate documents.
Is a notary public the same as a notary lawyer?
No. A notary public is someone trained to witness signatures. A notary lawyer is a lawyer who is also a notary. The term "notary lawyer" is not official — it just means a lawyer who holds both credentials.
Do I need a lawyer to notarize my will?
You need a notary to notarize your will, but you should have a lawyer draft it or review it first. A notary can only witness your signature; they cannot advise you on what should be in your will or whether it is valid in your state.
Can I notarize a document for a family member if I am a lawyer?
Most states allow it, but some restrict notaries from notarizing for close relatives. Check your state's notary rules before you do. Even if it is allowed, many notaries avoid it to prevent questions about impartiality.