Arkansas Notary Practice Test

Which of the following is a power granted to notaries in Arkansas?

1. Administering oaths

2. Drawing legal contracts

3. Performing wedding ceremonies

4. Providing legal advice

The correct answer is: Administering oaths

In Arkansas, one of the powers granted to notaries public is the ability to administer oaths. This function is essential because it allows notaries to affirm the truthfulness of statements made by individuals before them, particularly in legal and official documents. Administering oaths is a critical aspect of the notary's role, as it ensures that individuals are legally bound to tell the truth and can lead to consequences if they do not. While notaries can also perform certain specific functions, such as witnessing signatures and certifying documents, administering oaths is explicitly mentioned as a responsibility given to them under Arkansas notarial law. Other activities, like drawing legal contracts or providing legal advice, fall outside the notary's jurisdiction and could lead to legal issues if attempted by someone who is not qualified. Performing wedding ceremonies is a function that some notaries can undertake, but it is not universally granted and often depends on additional requirements, such as being a ordained minister or having specific qualifications.