How does one certify a document?

Certifying a document involves establishing its authenticity and ensuring that it is a true copy of the original. This process is most commonly accomplished through the involvement of a notary public, who is an official authorized to perform certain legal formalities. When a notary public certifies a document, they typically verify the identity of the individuals signing the document and confirm that they are doing so willingly and without coercion. This adds a layer of credibility to the document, as notaries are legally trained to handle such procedures and their certification serves as an assurance that the document is legitimate and can be relied upon in legal or official contexts.

In contrast, merely printing a document in multiple copies does not validate its authenticity; it only creates duplicates. Having the document witnessed by two individuals can provide additional verification but does not replace the formal certification provided by a notary public. Similarly, storing a document in a safe deposit box merely secures it but does not certify its content or its authenticity. Thus, using a notary public is the correct method for certifying a document.