What must a Notary screen for before proceeding with any notarization process?

The essential factor that a Notary must screen for before proceeding with any notarization process is documentation and identification. This requirement is crucial because the Notary has a legal obligation to verify the identity of the signer in order to prevent fraud and ensure that the document is being executed by the proper individual.

To properly perform a notarization, a Notary should always obtain appropriate identification, such as a government-issued photo ID, which provides evidence of the signer's identity. This verification process is vital to maintaining the integrity of the notarization and ensuring that the signer is both willing and competent to execute the document.

Although willingness and awareness of the signer are important considerations, they are not sufficient on their own. Without proper identification, the notarization could be compromised. Legal representation and the purpose of the notarization may be relevant in certain contexts but do not form the foundational requirement that a Notary must fulfill before completing the notarization process.