Book excerpt: As a notary public, you hold an important position in the state of Kansas. It is essential that you understand the notarial duties and responsibilities given in Kansas law. The purpose of this handbook is to help you understand notary laws so that you can perform your duties correctly. The purpose of a notary public is to prevent fraud and forgery. The notary acts as an official, unbiased witness to the identity of the person who signs the document. A Kansas notary public has six major duties: 1. Take acknowledgments, 2. Administer oaths and affirmations, 3. Take a verification upon oath or affirmation, 4. Witness or attest a signature, 5. Certify or attest a copy, and 6. Note a protest of a negotiable instrument. (K.S.A. 53-107)