In border cities in Southern California, where bilingual communities and different legal systems converge daily, specialists believe that education about the real functions of a Notary Public has become increasingly necessary to prevent misinformation and potential fraud.
While in Mexico a public notary holds broad legal authority, in the United States a Notary Public is primarily responsible for verifying identities and authenticating signatures.
Within this context operates LA Cheetah Notary, a mobile notarization service led by Fátima Rodríguez, covering areas of South Bay, East County, Central, and North Central San Diego County.
Rodríguez explained that many of the inquiries she receives come from people seeking guidance on procedures, contracts, or legal documents, often expecting support similar to that provided by a Mexican notary.
“I want the community to understand this difference because although the names sound the same, they do not mean the same thing,” Rodríguez said.
In the United States, she explained, a Notary Public’s role is to verify the identity of the person signing a document, confirm that the signature is made voluntarily, and help prevent document fraud.
“My job begins when the person already has all their documents ready, understands what they are signing, and agrees with the content. I verify identity and carry out the official notarization,” she said.
Demand for these services has increased particularly in areas related to immigration procedures, legal powers of attorney, sworn letters, and documentation linked to property or family assets.
According to Rodríguez, one of the most common documents she handles is the Power of Attorney, used to authorize another person to act on behalf of the signer.
“Many times people need to grant power when someone is sick, hospitalized, or unable to appear in person. These are very sensitive documents, and that is why they require notarization,” she explained.
The signing agent emphasized that she does not have the authority to correct forms or advise whether a document has been filled out incorrectly. “If something is wrong, I cannot correct it because that would be legal advice. The responsibility for the content always belongs to the person filling out the form,” she stated.
One of the services that distinguishes Rodríguez is mobile notarization, a model that allows her to assist clients at homes, hospitals, offices, or any location where official signatures are needed. “Many people cannot travel easily or have urgent situations.
Mobile service makes the process more accessible and convenient,” she said. More information is available at 619-551-3573.