Need a Legal And Professional Services / Notary Public Contract in North Carolina? AroundWire Can Help

In North Carolina, contracts for notary public services are governed by both state statutes and administrative regulations, notably the North Carolina Notary Public Act (N.C. Gen. Stat. Chapter 10B). Key contract features include the requirement that notaries hold a current, valid North Carolina notary commission, which must be verified prior to engagement. Contracts typically require proof of this commission and may specify adherence to state-mandated procedures, including recordkeeping and identification protocols. Notaries are generally required to maintain a surety bond of $10,000, and while errors and omissions (E&O) insurance is not mandated by law, it is a common contractual requirement to mitigate liability risks. Payment terms are often structured as fixed fees per notarization, in line with state maximum fee schedules, and contracts may include provisions for travel fees, provided they are disclosed and agreed upon in advance. Risk factors include improper notarization, failure to verify identity, and noncompliance with state laws, all of which can result in contract termination or legal liability. Dispute resolution clauses often favor mediation or arbitration before litigation, in accordance with local contracting norms. Additionally, contracts may reference compliance with the North Carolina Public Records Law if services are provided to government agencies. Overall, clear delineation of scope, compliance obligations, and indemnity provisions are standard in North Carolina notary public service contracts.