What is the principal duty of a Nevada notary public?

The principal duty of a Nevada notary public is to ensure that notarizations comply with state law and to prevent fraud. This role encompasses verifying the identity of individuals signing documents, confirming their willingness to sign without coercion, and ensuring that they comprehend the contents of the documents. By following established procedures, a notary helps uphold the integrity of the notarization process, which is crucial for maintaining public trust and preventing fraudulent activities. This foundational responsibility safeguards not only the interests of the parties involved but also affirms the legitimacy of the notarial act in legal matters.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary responsibilities of a notary. While notaries may be involved in real estate transactions, facilitating such transactions is not their main duty; they primarily serve as impartial witnesses to the signing of documents. Offering legal advice is outside a notary's scope, as they are not licensed to practice law. Similarly, while collecting fees is part of the notarial service, it is a secondary aspect, and the essence of a notary's role centers on the adherence to legal standards and the prevention of fraud in the notarization process.