Why must a notary require the signer to personally appear before them?

The requirement for a notary to have the signer personally appear is primarily to ensure that the signer is physically present and fully understands the signing process. This is crucial because the notary's role is to confirm the identity of the signer and to ensure that they are willingly signing the document without any duress or coercion. Personal appearance allows the notary to assess the signer's competence and willingness firsthand, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of the notarization process.

This personal interaction protects against potential fraud, as it is harder to verify identity and intent when transactions occur remotely. By requiring personal presence, the notary fulfills their legal responsibilities and upholds public confidence in the notarization process. The focus on understanding means that the notary can also address any questions or concerns the signer may have at the moment of signing, ensuring that the signer comprehends what they are attesting to.