A guide to common penalties for Notary misconduct

Updated 2-5-24. The biggest mistake a Notary can make is thinking, “Notarization isn’t a big deal.” Notarization is a big deal. It protects signers from document fraud and ensures the integrity of business and legal transactions. Willfully breaking the law — or even making an unintentional mistake — can lead to serious financial and legal penalties for you.

Here’s a look at some possible consequences of Notary misconduct in different states.

1. Notary Commission Suspended Or Revoked

A common punishment for Notary misconduct is taking away the Notary’s commission, either temporarily or permanently.

In Texas, the Secretary of State may suspend or revoke a commission if a Notary fails to require a signer’s personal appearance at the time the notarization is performed or for other violations that constitute “good cause” (GC 406.009[a] and [d][5]; 1 TAC 87.31).

Nevada officials may suspend the commission of any Notary who is no longer covered by a surety bond, or if the penal sum of the bond is exhausted (NRS 240.033.5).

States that have adopted the Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (RULONA), such as Colorado, Pennsylvania and Washington, can revoke or suspend a Notary’s commission on a variety of grounds, including the following:

The Notary fails to comply with the provisions of the law
The Notary makes a fraudulent statement or omission on their commission application
The Notary is convicted of a felony or a crime involving fraud, dishonesty or deceit
The Notary fails to discharge his or her duties
The Notary fails to maintain a mandatory surety bond (or “assurance”) if it's required by statute (not required in Colorado).

2. Criminal Penalties

Under some state laws, certain violations in performing a notarization can lead to a Notary being found guilty of a misdemeanor or even a felony in serious cases. Some states issue criminal penalties for specific acts.

For example, in North Carolina Notaries are considered guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor if they take an acknowledgment or administer an oath or affirmation without personal knowledge or satisfactory evidence of the principal’s identity (GS 10B-60[c]).

In Hawaii, failing to include the elements required on a certificate statement is a misdemeanor and the Notary shall be sentenced in accordance with Chapter 706 (HRS 456-21[c]). Conviction for this offense results in automatic commission revocation (HRS 456-21[d]). The Attorney General also may impose a $500 fine (HRS 456-9[c][4]).

In Georgia, a Notary who knowingly executes a notarial certificate containing a statement the Notary knows to be false — or who performs an act with the intent to deceive or defraud — is guilty of a misdemeanor for the first two convictions (OCGA 45-17-8[d] and 45-17-20). A Georgia Notary convicted three or more times of these offenses can be found guilty of a felony (OCGA 45-17-20).

3. Civil Penalties

Some types of misconduct may require the Notary to pay a fine or other civil penalty. For example, in Massachusetts, a person who acts as a Notary after their commission expires can be fined $100-$500 (GL 222 Sec. 9).

In Virginia, a nonattorney Notary who assumes, uses or advertises the title “notario,” “notario publico” or “licenciado,” or any other term in a language other than English that indicates they are authorized to practice law is subject to a maximum civil penalty of $500 for the first offense and a maximum $1,000 for a second or subsequent violation (COV 47.1-15.1).

Arizona officials may impose a civil penalty of $1,000 if a Notary fails to report the loss, theft or compromise of a Notary stamp or journal to both the Secretary of State and law enforcement within 10 days (ARS 41-323.C).

4. Lawsuits And Financial Liability

Even if a state does not fine a Notary or levy other punishments for misconduct, a Notary can still be sued by a signer in civil court if the Notary’s actions were responsible for financial losses — whether the Notary made the mistake intentionally or not. In one case, a Notary was sued for $250,000 after it was discovered the signer was an impostor and the Notary failed to record the signer’s thumbprint in the Notary’s journal entry. In another case, a Notary was sued for failing to follow proper procedure when relying on a credible witness to identify a signer.

A Notary isn’t the only one who can be held liable for misconduct. Employers and bosses can be held liable as well if they ask Notaries who work for them to violate proper procedure.

Under Florida law, a Notary’s employer can be held liable for damages proximately caused by a Notary employee’s misconduct if the notarization was performed as part of the employee’s job duties (FS 117.05[6]). And even if a Notary is not found liable, paying for court costs and legal representation can be extremely costly.

In Illinois, an employer is liable if they consented to the Notary's misconduct while the Notary was acting within the scope of their employment (5 ICLS 312/7-102).

How To Avoid The Consequences Of Notary Misconduct

The best way to avoid penalties from Notary misconduct is to steer clear of any improper actions or ethically questionable behavior when notarizing. The following steps will help you avoid some of the most egregious examples of misconduct:

Know the law in your state and the violations that can be penalized. If you don’t know the law, learn it.
Always follow your state’s laws regarding signer personal appearance and identification.
Never falsify information in a notarial certificate and make sure all required information is included.
Never let anyone else have access to your Notary seal or journal, and keep your seal and journal in a locked, secure area under your control when not in use.
Make sure you use a Notary journal and record a complete entry for every notarization you perform.
Never give a signer improper legal advice about a document or choose the type of notarization for a signer.

David Thun is the Editorial Manager at the National Notary Association.

These high-risk notarizations have high risk of fraud

10 steps Notaries can take to avoid being sued

Additional Resources:

The Notary Public Code Of Professional Responsibility

219 Comments

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Anonymous

14 Aug 2024

I notarized an unlawful eviction on behalf of the father of my child unaware he's concerned a relative ever though we are not married and we currently aren't in the same home. I'm in FL what could be the penalty and what should I do next?

National Notary Association

15 Aug 2024

Hello. We're sorry, but you will need to contact a qualified attorney for legal advice and to answer any legal questions about your situation.

Lisa Roush

24 Jul 2024

Hello, I ask you one or two question. I am deaf, lever like 2nd grade, my first language is American Sign Language (ASL). My father doesn't know ASL. in 2009, my father took me to the bank, he communicated with a notary and I don't understand them. The notary asked me for ID and didn't communicate with me about the document. My father covered the paper in half, which he doesn't let me and the notary read. I signed. The notary signed and sealed notarized. My father grabbed it to hid. He showed his thumb up. He was hurried to drop me off home. He left. I don't know anything about the document. He never talk to me about it. Eight years later in 2017, I talked to friend Martin about the document. I looked for it at my parents' house and found it. I don't understand what it says. I showed Martin that document. He read and explained me in ASL. I was shocked and was very angry. The document is "quit claim deed" that I gave up the house to my mother. I told my mother about it. She refused to talk because my siblings controlled and manipulated. (they knew the house). My mother's mental and health are decline and live in assistant living. Also my neighbor harassed me for nine years. Last February I moved out and live in one bedroom apartment. I am not happy with my apt. (sun explores stairs, handle rail and my door toooo hot) and wanted to move out. I cannot afford. I am stuck. My brother took over the house and remodelled. He took most money from my mother. She has no money (lives in assistant living, cost $5,000 each month). Three weeks ago, my friend Ron became notary certification and I asked him about my experience. He said my father is guilty of crime. The notary could lose a license for not communicate with me about the document and sign and seal notarized without my knowledge. She could face jail time. I wanted to sue the notary. What kind of attorney should I hire? Thank you.

29 Jul 2024

Hello. We are sorry, but we cannot provide legal advice regarding your situation.

Jamin sims

20 Jul 2024

OK I live in the state of Oklahoma and notarization stamp says expiration date of the commission was 2026 and the notary notary wrote that your commission expired in 2023 now is that a legal document or it is false

23 Jul 2024

Hello. You would need to speak with an attorney or the agency receiving the document to determine if the document is still acceptable if it contains a notarization error.

Allie

05 Jun 2024

I'm trying to get a notarized document for me & my childs father without having to go to court that we both are in agreement in. I would like to know what charges will come with him not following the document as far as if he decides not to give my baby back to me (if he ever does that but I don't think he will).. but I would like to be informed just in case, would it be labeled as " custodial kidnapping?'

06 Jun 2024

Hello. We're sorry, but those are legal questions that would need to be answered by a qualified attorney.

kb

29 May 2024

a florida notary notarized court for her husband documents an filed in broward county i complaint to dept of notary she has been suspended and placed oh hold during investigation the office of general saysincan sue is this true to her notary services company. how do i go about this and how much can i sue for

Hello. Any legal questions about filing a lawsuit would need to be answered by a qualified attorney.

Lauren Tillotson

24 Apr 2024

I deal with Digital Court Reporters in Florida, one of my reporters applied for her Notary, took the course, sent in the paperwork, and assumed she was good to go. She took a few depositions where she swore in the witness, but when it came time to do the transcript, I asked about her notary number and she told me that she didn't have it yet. I have read about State v. Shearer, 617 So.2d (Fla. App. 5 Dist. 1993) and it says that there can be a Witness Signature page in which the witness signs "Under penalty of perjury," that they have read the attached transcript and that it is correct. Is that something we could use for the few depositions she took before she actually reeieved her notary number?

This will be a legal question that should be referred to a qualified attorney, over whether the court reporter has other qualifications to be considered and/or alternatives in place to mitigate the absence of the Notary commission.

Richard

23 Apr 2024

I’m currently dealing with legal matters with previous employer. And the lady in the office notarized a false statement and she knows it’s not true and can be called as a witness. Is this not a conflict of interest since she is directly connected to this case. This just seems so wrong. North Carolina

25 Apr 2024

Hello. We're sorry, but we are not able to provide a legal opinion on the details of your situation. You would need to contact a qualified attorney for a legal opinion and legal advice on your situation.

Ashley

13 Mar 2024

What should I do if there are many spelling mistakes on a Heirship Affidavit that has been notarized in NYS?

14 Mar 2024

Based on what you’ve described, we think it would be best if you contacted our Hotline team by phone and provided them with a more detailed description of the situation. The NNA Hotline: 1-888-876-0827 Mon – Fri: 5:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. (PT) Saturday: 5:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (PT) If you’re not an NNA Member or Hotline Subscriber, they will provide you with a one-time courtesy call.

Sara morrison

01 Mar 2024

Hello this is in California. My mom has dementia. Before she started getting bad basically as soon as we were told she had early in stage dementia. She had me go down with her n gamer power of atterney papers notarized as her power of atterney. She was in a car accident and has been doing court over zoom on my phone. My sisters and neighbor of my moms. We’re all trying to figure out how to get me off as power of atterney. And right before my mom agreed to an amount from other ins. They took. Y mom to a different buttery then I did. N had me taken off as power of atterney. And added my mom to the neighbors bank account to cash check once it comes. My moms signitures so not match any tgat I have on previous paper wrk. No one went inside with her. Yet she cannot drive. The bough or is holding document in picture they sent lawyers handling her case. And the nitery said my moms does not have deentia. What can I do because my mom has no idea what’s going on with her money. I’m down at her house from New Mexico where I live due to this. I feel the neighbor. Is a con artist. And my starters want her money.

04 Mar 2024

Hello. You will need to consult with a qualified attorney for any legal advice regarding your situation. If you have reason to suspect you or your mother is a victim of fraud, you may wish to contact law enforcement to report the situation.

Tom K

20 Feb 2024

I will expect that State Rules or an Attourney will be expected to view Document's before a Notary Stamp would be applied to 90% of the Cases I read in this Article.T.J.K.

Aj

01 Feb 2024

I am a NY notary but our office relocated to CT. My boss asked me to notarize a document for a client in our CT office using my NY notary stamp. I told him that since we were not in the state of New York, I am out of my jurisdiction and do not have authority to notarize documents in CT. Was I correct in declining? Thank you.

05 Feb 2024

Hello. You are correct, your commission only authorizes you to perform notarizations while physically located within the borders of New York state. New York Notaries may not travel to other states to notarize. “The secretary of state may appoint and commission as many notaries public for the state of New York as in his judgment may be deemed best, whose jurisdiction shall be co-extensive with the boundaries of the state” (EL 130).

Ann H

29 Jan 2024

While my husband was home on hospice I had my attorney draft up a quick will. The notary took the will with her and brought it back the next day already notarized. She refused to come in the house to do it correctly, she dropped it off and left. Because of her, I'm having to go through probate and it's costing a fortune. I originally didn't want to get her in trouble since I don't know who she is, but two years later and I'm still in probate. Is there anything I can do to make her pay my expenses? I live in Texas.

Hello. You would need to contact an attorney for legal advice on options you can pursue.

T

23 Jan 2024

My aunt had a stroke and needed assistance with her dads POA, she was unable to pay his bills for several months. I did an addendum to her POA and had him sign and witness to allow me to "assist" her in paying his bills. I used to same notary stamp as my aunts, but put my name in place of hers. Now thats being looked at. I was trying to assist.

Abbie Jackson

20 Dec 2023

I went to The UPS store in Texas to have documents for mortgage relief completed, the notary did not enter the date correctly which caused my application for assistance to be denied. Do I have any financial recourse?

05 Jan 2024

Hello. You would need to consult with a qualified attorney for legal advice regarding this situation.

Karen Brundage-Johnson

14 Nov 2023

Excellent and informative article David. Thank you.

16 Nov 2023

Thank you for your feedback, and we're glad you found the article helpful!

Anonymous Family

02 Nov 2023

Thank you, I emailed them and got the response: "The Secretary of State’s Office does not have an investigative department, nor do we have any law enforcement authority. If you are concerned that a crime has taken place, we recommend you contact your local police/sheriff or your district attorney’s office." I'll do that, but nothing will happen. This estate is getting embezzled from and the huge law firm involved is about to get away with it. Unreal.

They are commissioned in Oklahoma.

The Oklahoma Secretary of State's Notary Public Services can be contacted by phone at 1-405-521-2516.

01 Nov 2023

I'm the Personal Representative for an estate in probate court currently in Oklahoma (creek county) I need to report notary fraud against a Notary and the Attorney. Where can I turn please? The lawyer took signatures off previously notarized documents and placed them on new motions and newly dated notaries, although the parties (the heirs) have never been in front of the notary here, in fact they are out of state.

Hello. To help us answer your question, can you clarify if the Notary is commissioned in Oklahoma or another state?

Nancy Perez

29 Sep 2023

Hi what can we do if we filed for a petition with a notary but we don’t know if he actually did. We gave him all what he needed for the application, even the payment back in 2020, and he had asked us twice to send over everything again and we have but yet he still shows no commitment in filing. His lack of communication also has back tracked us since he doesn’t reply in a timely manner. We even drove out of state to see him for an appointment and he wasn’t able to appear so he cancelled us on the spot. In this case what can we do since it’s been three years we have been wanting to try another person but when we do he then says he will do it now for real but we don’t see no results. We have wasted so much time on him and he has failed to commit to his duty. He also has been paid, and if we leave we could loose our money for the application, even the physical apportionment my mom needed.

02 Oct 2023

Hello. To help us answer your question, can you please clarify a few details? When you mention a petition, are you referring to an immigration status petition? Also, can you tell us what state the Notary is commissioned in? Thank you.

C.Stevens

20 Sep 2023

A legal document was not signed in the presence of a notary but it was notarized stating she was present, is it legal and are the signatures legal on the document?? State of Kentucky

26 Sep 2023

Hello. Any questions about the legality of a specific document will need to be answered by a qualified attorney.

Vanessa Raye' Brasseaux

14 Sep 2023

Can I press charges on my sister-in-law for nortizing hertited property in which her 2 kids witnessed it

15 Sep 2023

Hello. We're sorry, but any questions about legal options in a property dispute would need to be answered by a qualified attorney.

Bdelygmia

03 Sep 2023

My sister had power of attourny documents notarized in California where the notary was not present, only I was, she mislead me on the content of the documents and told me they were so our dads property wouldn’t go into probate but they were to put all my dads bank accounts and properties in her name and to take my name off, our dad (who died of covid) refused to sign them for her despite her asking every night for years, but when I asked him and told him to sign them he did, as I was his care taker and I begged him cause I was under the impression we would lose his properties in Florida if he didn’t sign as this is what my sister mislead me to believe, but on his way to sign in front of the notary who was in our back yard from my dads upstairs back balcony in his bathroom, my dad slid out of his wheelchair where I helped him on to the floor safely but was unable to lift him back up into the chair so he never even saw the notary only I was present Andy sister had me take picture of him signing and said that would be good enough and the notary even noterized them before he signed them as you can see in the pictures of him signing already noterized paper full of blank spots. This was a day before he died. And she has since taken all his money and had me removed from my dads house with help of my mother who I believe was the one who deliberately gave me covid to kill my dad so they could make my dads house into air b&b and my sister spent ny dads trust he left us to pay off the mortgage on a new house for her abs her boyfriend all the while expecting me to leave so they could pay the remaining 100k on our dad house mortgage by making it an income property. How can I make her responsible for repaying all the money she embezzled and used to make me and my 3 dogs homeless by doing this?

05 Sep 2023

Hello. We're sorry, but we cannot provide legal advice. You will need to consult with an attorney regarding your options in this situation.

Michael

02 Sep 2023

I have been a notary now for 7 years and I just done a Non contested divorce and it went south quick, i refused to sign and stamp the papers and told them to get an attorney. then the wife and the nerve to call me and want me to sign and stamp them without the husband being present. and then her father threatened me if i did not sign and stamp them. I do not care who you are i will not break the law for nobody.

Megan

07 Aug 2023

Notary at my bank says she must keep copies of everything she notarized. Which is weird because she just started doing this. Is that within her power? From NC.

Hello. No, it is not appropriate for Notaries to keep copies of documents they notarize, as this is a potential violation of signer privacy. Please see this article for more information: https://www.nationalnotary.org/notary-bulletin/blog/2019/07/avoiding-privacy-breaches-during-and-after-a-notarization

Ng

30 Jul 2023

I believe I’ve been a victim of fraud my family member I signed something and my brothers, a notary he notarize something without my knowledge can you get in trouble for that is that fraud? I was unaware that he notarize something which happened was he cut me out of the deed on the house and change it to my mother, has full rights to the house is that legal? I was paying the mortgage get back to me.

31 Jul 2023

Hello. We're sorry, but you would need to contact a qualified attorney to answer any legal questions about a property dispute.

DDavis

28 Jul 2023

Hello Theres a notary in Tennessee who swatts,harrasses and slanders a group of anti human trafficker volunteers both in social media and in private. It's gotten to the point, she is having a friend of hers take our company to federal courts to sue us for slander when in fact they started it all. The notary will also charge for research stating shes not an attorney but alot of documents can ve filed with out one etc. My question is since she brags about knowing her local juduciary and le, who can i file a complaint too about this?

Hello. Please see this page on the TN Secretary of State's website for guidance on filing Notary complaints: https://sos.tn.gov/node/463

Jess

14 Jul 2023

For the above description, how about answering if the notary must be present for a change to the doc after it is notarized? And would be the penalty in Arkansas for missing the blank space? I don't want to get her in trouble by asking someone that would report her mistake. Please.

Hello. Again, we're sorry, but your question are asking for legal advice we are not authorized to provide. You need to contact a qualified attorney for assistance with this matter.

My daughter made a separation agreement through a wizard. She was frantic to get it signed before her husband left the house. She wanted something in writing. Her neighbor agreed to notarize it but was going to bed soon. She had taken medication that made her drowsy. She didn't really look at it. We all signed and sealed. After going back to the house the notary called to say there is a blank space and it must be filled in and initialed. The notary said she did not want to go outside again. So fill in or trash it because it's no good. They filled them and initialed without her. There were also 2 witness signatures. What are the witnesses for? They don't need to sign with the notary, do they? Is the agreement legal? What is the repercussion for the Notaryin Arkansas?

Hello. We're sorry, but you need to speak with a qualified attorney who is authorized to give you legal advice and answer legal questions regarding the situation you described.

Divorced

22 Jun 2023

If a notary puts a seal on a document that later shows false information was in the document will this person be liable? The notary is the gf of the signer and should know if information is false.

26 Jun 2023

Hello. You would need to consult with an attorney to answer any questions about a person's potential liability.

Kerry

12 Jun 2023

FL: Durable PoA & Health Directive executed by mother and notarized by licensed notary-attorney April 2020, but notary area used incorrect language and proof of identification notice (January 1, 2020, FL law had changed language and proof requirements.) Financial institutions will not accept documents because of this error, and now may need to proceed with Conservatorship/Guardianship in GA that will cost money. What is deadline for filing civil lawsuit in FL if decide want to pursue action against notary/attorney?

Hello. We're sorry, but that's a legal question that would need to be answered by a qualified attorney.

Talmadge Billingslea

02 Jun 2023

I paid for an international notary with US V***Notary. It was for a Deed which needed a "Wet" signature in order to be recorded. This was not a complex signing (I thought). The original documents were mailed to me and I forwarded them unopened to the Notary. After four days, I contacted US Virtual for a status. It went downhill from there. They wanted an additional $75. I paid it. Still no documents. I contacted again. They wanted an additional $25 per witness signature ($50). Now they say they never received the documents. Even with the photo of FedEx with it on the notary's doorstep. How do i file a formal complaint against the company and Notary. At this point I have all but lost the real estate deal and I will cost me more to hire another notary company.

Divorce for abandonment:

23 May 2023

My soon to be divorced wife, a notary, had my daughter sign a blank paper for what would end up being a notarized statement regarding adultery. My wife then had an associate at her law firm notarize the statement without person present who made the statement, my daughter. Both notaries are bonded by the same law firm. Was this illegal?

Hello. We're sorry, but that is a legal question that would require a qualified attorney to answer.

Heath

28 Apr 2023

I bought a car and the notary never filed my paperwork and has since fled town. I have been without a car for the past 2 months because my inspection ran out and it can not be inspected because I don't have a registration for it. I have called the police and they are working on it. What can I do legally? I have lost work and have had to ask for rides and paid people to take me places and use their vehicles. What else can I be doing? How can I get compensated for the money that I have had to put out for this problem which was none of my fault? Do I have to sue the Notary civilly? Is there a bond that I may get some of my money back from?

01 May 2023

Hello. We're sorry, but only a qualified attorney is authorized to give you legal advice regarding steps required to pursue a lawsuit. You may wish to contact a lawyer for a consultation.

Mark kilburn

09 Apr 2023

A few years back I was incarcerated and was charged with my own medication as promoting contraband I won the case in the court system at home and then they sent it to the pills Court to try to overturn the judges decision I was wondering where the notary notary had permission to fix the papers for me to go to the drugstore for Mark kilburn and he bought the paper I bought the paper back can he Sue where he's bonded by the state to tell the truth and help him with his medication John is done

10 Apr 2023

Hello. Nonattorney Notaries are not authorized to provide customers with legal advice or represent customers in legal proceedings.

Scott

24 Mar 2023

With regard to Pennsylvania legal standards to acquire a notary commission, is it a disqualifying factor to obtain a notary commission if an individual completed an ARD Program successfully more than 10 years ago and since has had the record expunged for misdemeanors of simple assault and terroristic threats (non-conviction and non-admission of guilt status)?

28 Mar 2023

Hello. 57 Pa.C.S. 323 states that a Notary commission application may be denied for conviction of or acceptance of Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition by the applicant or notary public for a felony or an offense involving fraud, dishonesty or deceit. We would recomment you speak to the Bureau of Elections and Notaries directly at 1-717-787-5280 if you have further questions about the specific situation you are describing.

Tatiana

20 Mar 2023

Hello, I'm in Maryland. A young lady received financial assistance from her mother monthly. Her mother provided an income contribution letter and happens to be a notary so she notarized the letter herself, is that allowed? Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Hello. In Maryland, “A notarial officer may not perform a notarial act with respect to a record to which the notarial officer or the spouse of the notarial officer is a party, or in which either the notarial officer or the spouse of the notarial officer has a direct beneficial interest” (ACM St. Gov’t 18-203[b][1]). A notarial act performed in violation of this provision is voidable (ACM St. Gov’t 18-203[b][2]).

Deborah Barrentine

09 Mar 2023

A notary in Michell County GA has notarized a forged signature document as well as falsified documents. Who should this be reported to?

10 Mar 2023

Hello. Any suspected case of fraud should be reported to local law enforcement authorities. Please see this article for additional information: https://www.nationalnotary.org/notary-bulletin/blog/2022/07/how-to-report-a-notary-crime

jennifer

07 Feb 2023

I'd like to file a complaint against a NJ notary, but I live in NV. How do I do that?

08 Feb 2023

Hello. The state agency that governs NJ Notaries is the Department of the Treasury's Notary Public Unit. You can reach them at (609) 292-9292.

joshy joshjosh

03 Feb 2023

Neither the CA Notary handbook nor the NNA has any information on what is a valid or invalid thumbprint. Are poked, rolled, partial, scratched are valid prints where a fraudster intentionally goes to great lengths to leave anything other than a full flat with loop/ball/hook of thumbprint? Why or why not?

23 Mar 2023

Notary law does not indicate how a thumbprint should be taken and what is valid or invalid. The typical manner in which a thumbprint is made is to press the thumbprint straight down on the ink pad, then straight down into the Notary Journal. If the impression appears to be smudged, partial, of other wise unrecognizable as a thumbprint, another impression should be made.

Mariusz Jakobczyk

06 Dec 2022

Attorney photocopied from old documents and notarized Trustee's signature, on documents (Accounting) submited in Surrogate Court in NY. I'm not looking for legal advise. Can you classify his misconduct?

07 Dec 2022

Penny Avalos

13 Nov 2022

I'm in Florida and was asked to be a witness for people signing their documents. Living wills, power of attorney's etc... sometime i am asked to witness in person and most of the time i witness via zoom and wanted to ask. Sometimes she can't get a hold of me or the other witness via zoom so she pretends we are witnessing and has us sign the documents.that we did not witness, I sign them as asked. This has happened to many times. She is now LLC and I sign what she needs me to sign cause I thought that it was ok. I'm feeling bad because I don't even know if that person signing was in their right mind.. I trusted her so I didn't think anything of it. But now I'm ot sure. She always has to be in control of every situation. Reading up on notaries does and don't. I've heard her tell her client which documents they need. She tries in every way to get them to buy the whole package deal. And I would always hear her say she knows more than the lawyers do. I look back now and she always needed to be the center of attention.. what do I do because I have signed documents that I've not witnessed.

17 Nov 2022

Hello. We're sorry, but we cannot provide you with legal advice regarding the situation you describe. You would need to contact a qualified attorney for advice.

Kimberly Tolle

20 Sep 2022

My father died in January after his death my sister and her wife went to Portland Oregon where they made a false will and my sister's wife got it notarized by her sister who is a notary. What can I do besides speak to an attorney

26 Sep 2022

Hello. We are sorry, but we cannot give you legal advice about your situation. You will need to consult with a qualified attorney for legal advice.

Troy Sanders

13 Sep 2022

My aunt is a licensed Notory public in CA. She drafted a notory public form for 4 relatives and have them signed it. However when it comes to my signature she lied and stated that I was traveling and not able to sign. I live in another state and I recently found out. I want to report this. How do I go about doing it.

16 Sep 2022

Hello. Instructions for filing complaints against California Notaries can be found here: https://www.sos.ca.gov/notary/file-complaint

Tim Bruns

09 Sep 2022

In New York State, how can I report a notary who notarized my forged signature in my absence?

Hello. You can find a complaint form with instructions here: https://dos.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2022/09/1507-f.pdf

theresa

09 Aug 2022

Can notaries ethically enter an alzheimer's unit to have a patient sign documents.

AG

25 Jul 2022

A few months back I notarized an Application for Reappointment as a NC Notary Public for a person and was extremely busy with other notary documents and she failed to sign the document while she was in front of me and I did not notice plus I inadvertently entered my name in the space the applicant's printed commission name. I've received a letter from NC Secretary of State asking for a written response with the circumstances surrounding this notarization on this document and do not know how to respond. I've been a notary since before 1991 and never had any type of violation. Please assist me in responding

National Notary Associatoin

Based on what you’ve described, we think it would be best if you contacted our Hotline team by phone and provided them with more details about the situation. The NNA Hotline: 1-888-876-0827 Mon – Fri: 5:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. (PT) Saturday: 5:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (PT) If you’re not an NNA Member or Hotline Subscriber, they will provide you with a one-time courtesy call.

Lou

24 Jun 2022

Two years ago I notarized a document allowing a noncustodial parent to have the custodial parent have their son baptized, The noncustodial parent is like family to he therefore I signed the letter. Normally I would write personally known by me. Just a few days ago I received a letter for misconduct. the custodial parent being the mother cooked up a lie saying that the father threaten to sue the diocese of Miami claiming he did not give permission to have his son baptized. This of course is not true…I have already spoken to the noncustodial parent and he assured me that this is accusation is not true. what can I do?

28 Jun 2022

Hello. We're sorry, but we cannot provide legal advice regarding your situation. You will need to contact an attorney for legal assistance or advice.

Lakisha Newman

22 Jun 2022

I took an onboarding test that asked what type of charge would it be to notarize without a commission (class 1 or 2 misdemeanor, felony etc). I had no idea what the the answer was. As I look in VA handbook it says it "may constitute a criminal offense" but so far I don't see anything so far that states the type of charge. Can someone offer insight?

Jessica H

21 Jun 2022

Hi, I'm a California notary, and I want to know if I'm named as a second successor for a living trust, would I still be able to notarize the trust agreement for the original Trustors or would that be conflict of interest? Thanks!

Hello. No, you may not perform the notarization. In California, “A notary public who has a direct financial or beneficial interest in a transaction shall not perform any notarial act in connection with such transaction. “For purposes of this section, a notary public has a direct financial or beneficial interest in a transaction if the notary public: “(a) With respect to a financial transaction, is named, individually, as a principal to the transaction. “(b) With respect to real property, is named, individually, as a grantor, grantee, mortgagor, mortgagee, trustor, trustee, beneficiary, vendor, vendee, lessor, or lessee, to the transaction” (GC 8224).

Katherine

16 Jun 2022

I need to know who I can call for notary fraud in the state of Oklahoma. My sister-in-law notarized a No Adminstator Affidavit, for her husband (my brother), which declared he was the only heir to our deceased father's truck so they could transfer the title into my brother's name and sell the truck in an attempt to keep it out of probate.

Hello. The regulating agency for Notaries in Oklahoma is the Oklahoma Secretary of State's office. You can contact them at (405) 521-2516 or notary@sos.ok.gov to ask for instructions regarding filing a complaint.

Goldie Poth

07 Jun 2022

Are there legal liabilities for notaries that fail to perform the oath and affirmation on a jurat in the state of Arizona and are the business that they work for also potentionally liable if this is common practice in their establishments? Are there any statutes you could direct me to?

09 Jun 2022

Hello. According to ARS 41-330.a.9, “failure to administer the oath or affirmation required at the time of performing a jurat” is grounds for refusal, suspension or revocation of a Notary’s commission. Any legal questions about potential liability in a lawsuit would need to be answered by a qualified attorney.

Kathy

17 May 2022

I already suspected my sister for falsifying documents for my uncle that had Alzheimer's and taking his home, but it was brought to lite that the notary did not ask a certain person for proper identification when signing a release document , so this person forged another persons name on those documents and my sister was able to take him off of the house that she stole from my uncle. All notaries are to ask for proper identification before signing, correct? What can I do about this, I noticed the notary has 2 different commission numbers, why is that she is in California?

18 May 2022

Hello. If you wish to file a complaint against a California Notary, you can do so through the California Secretary of State's website: https://www.sos.ca.gov/notary/file-complaint

Selena

02 May 2022

I left two of my books at a previous employer and they won’t return them until I return them their employee uniform. Is this legal?

11 May 2022

Hello. To help us answer your question can you please tell us what state you are commissioned in?

Lauren

24 Apr 2022

What is the process for reporting notary who fraudulently notarized a document in Georgia ?

Hello. Please contact the Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority at 1-404-327-6023 to request instructions.

Gail Johnson

29 Mar 2022

I am in S.C. and my husband signed 2 notarized paper after he kicked me out of the house. We are getting a divorce. The date on one of the paper, is a day he was with me all day long. He was just out of the hospital and was not to drive for two weeks. The hospital doctor also told him not to sign legal documents for two weeks. The notarized papers was signed 4 days after he was discharged from the hospital. What can I do? I have made 10 attempts to speak with the notary and he will not see me. The notary and my husband are very good friends.

30 Mar 2022

Hello. If you believe you are the victim of Notary fraud, you should contact local law enforcement or speak to an attorney.

Jackie

17 Mar 2022

What is the process for reporting notary who fraudulent notarized a document?

18 Mar 2022

Hello. To help us answer your question, can you please tell us the state the Notary is commissioned in?

Candice Angotti

28 Feb 2022

Great article thank you. David, in the very last section you say..."Never give a signer improper legal advice about a document or choose the type of notarization for a signer." Wouldn't it better to say Never give a signer ANY LEGAL ADVICE...with all the new untrained notaries out there this could be an issue.

Linda Robinson

22 Feb 2022

My ex - husband tricked me into signing a quit claim deed, and had a notary at his office notarize it and file it without my knowledge

Candy

11 Feb 2022

On an easement right of way, a notary accidentally put a line through the state and county where the easement was located and put the state and county where the Notary took place. Would that entire document have to be redone?

Hello. You would need to contact the receiving agency or a qualified attorney to answer any questions about requirements for correcting or redoing the document.

Lisa

19 Jan 2022

I'm in the state of NC and my brother has filed for a Durable POA for my mother, however his siter-in-law was the person who notarized the document. I wanted to know if that document is legal? can it be contested?

20 Jan 2022

Hello. Any questions about the legality of a document would need to be answered by a qualified attorney.

Katharine Penix

18 Jan 2022

I found out a document was forged In my name and the guy who forged my name had his girlfriend notarize it. Sad world out here. I live in Indiana the guy and his girlfriend live in Kentucky. It was a Kentucky application they forged.

Clarice

30 Dec 2021

What is the legality of someone using a notary stamp that is not their name snd has another name. It was used in a document with a forged signature of another person. The stamp was used to notarize forged focument

05 Jan 2022

Hello. A Notary stamp may only be used by the commissioned Notary and no one else. If you suspect a Notary seal was used for fraudulent purposes, you should contact local law enforcement or your state Notary commissioning agency.

JonathanM

14 Dec 2021

In April of 2007, a signer was charged $10.00 for a single acknowledgment. Under New York law, the signer is entitled to damages equaling $24.00. Why and where can I obtain a rule or law that says this

Hello. For any legal questions regarding liability in a specific case, you would need to speak to a qualified attorney.

J. C

09 Dec 2021

When I completed my loan signing back in mid 2020, the notary electronically sent me my loan docs via email. They were not sent secure and I am being advised that she wasn't supposed to do so. Is that a true statement?

Hello. You may wish to contact your lender or real estate agent to ask about their email security guidelines for your loan signing, and if the Notary Signing Agent followed them correctly.

Melissa lara

01 Dec 2021

My friend is a Texas Notary Public and she had a felony DWI she was stopped by DPS . Will this cause her license to not be renewed or suspended?

06 Dec 2021

Hello. In Texas, “A person is not eligible to be a notary public if the person was convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude or a felony and the conviction has become final, has not been set aside, and no pardon or certificate of restoration of citizenship rights has been granted” (1 TAC 87.10[b]). If a Texas Notary has questions about specific details of their situation, they should contact the state Notary Public Unit at 1-512-463-5705

DMD

24 Nov 2021

The UPS store in Kailua, Hawaii is requiring a waiver of rights before rendering any notary services. I was denied notary service by the notary because I refused to sign the waiver or waive any of my rights. I gave notice to the notary at the UPS store and the UPS store owner that the requirement to waive any of my rights before having any documents notarized is a violation of law and the notary's duty because she allowed a company policy to take precedent before proper procedure, to which she replied, "Well, do what you have to do".

Christy Francis

11 Oct 2021

My father’s will was notarized in the state of Idaho without his signature. The notary also stamped it upside down. Who do I contact to report the misconduct?

12 Oct 2021

Hello. The Idaho Secretary of State's office appoints, regulates and maintains records on the state’s Notaries. Their phone number is 1-208-332-2810 and their website is http://sos.idaho.gov/notary/index.html.

Lois

20 Sep 2021

What do you do if you believe that a fraudulent company, sent out a Notary to an elderly persons house to get documents signed and collect personal identifying information , such as social security card, drivers license and credit card information. The notary states that she received the request to go and get these documents notarized through a 24 hr rapid notary service. When trying to contact said 24 hr. notary service all you get is a general recording. No name of business etc. Can the notary be held liable for assisting in identity theft? I thought notaries are supposed to know the businesses and or companies they do work for?

23 Sep 2021

Hello. Any legal questions regarding a Notary's potential liability would need to be answered by a qualified attorney. If you wish to file a complaint against a Notary, please let us know what state the Notary is commissioned in and we can let you know if that state has a process in place for filing a complaint.

Janet Hayes

01 Sep 2021

State of Florida, I have been a Notary since 1976 and I was recently employed in an office where the other Notary (the office manager) daily had another employee sign an engineer’s name on document and then notarized it as if the real engineer signed it, she also signs a name of another engineer and then notarized it, she also has another employee sign other documents and then notarized it like the real person signed the document. Do I have a responsibility to report her activities. I have copies of some of the documents with contemporaneous notes thereon as to who signed and the circumstances. I am serious about my commission and she is not. She has already been in front of the Governor for a suspicious notarization. Maybe that one was a fluke, however, I know that it is a daily activity that she notarizes signatures that are not truly a signature of the named person who was to sign. Morally, I am having a dilemma.

10 Sep 2021

Hello. If you wish to file a complaint against a Florida Notary, you can find information on the process here: https://www.flgov.com/notary-complaints/

Okie

26 Aug 2021

Where would I file a complaint of fraud for my brother's girlfriend notarizing a deed from my father to my brother. She and my brother now live in the home they deeded to themselves.

Hello. You would need to contact local law enforcement or your state Notary regulating agency to ask if you can file a complaint.

Cloria Roberts

17 Aug 2021

I paid $150 to a notary to do a 30 day process Notary Presentment. She did not do the work at all my documents was not mailed properly therefore the mail was never delivered. She never answer her phone doing the time of our business, then she changed her #.How do I file a legal complaint. Because this was a clear case of theft of not performing the service paid for.

18 Aug 2021

Hello. Any questions you have about filing a legal claim for failure to provide services would need to be answered by a qualified attorney.

Kimberly Fox

15 Jun 2021

How do you file charges against a notary who has notified for their brother who has died so she can get all of his assets?

Hello. To help us answer your question, can you please tell us what state the Notary is commissioned in?

Johngallegos

02 May 2021

Can i sue a notery if he noterized my devorse papers without being present and i wasent even served any papers at all then 2 weeks later i was devorsed and dident even no it iam in. NM

03 May 2021

Hello. We're sorry, but that is a legal question and you would need to consult a qualified attorney for advice in this matter.

V.S.

20 Apr 2021

Where do I report notary misconduct in the state of New Jersey?

26 Apr 2021

Hello. We would suggest contacting the New Jersey Department of the Treasury at 1-609-292-9292. describe the nature of the complaint, and ask them to direct you to the correct authority to file a Notary complaint with.

Juanita Mondragon

24 Mar 2021

My mom passes away Sept.19, 2019. My brother had a notary friend from work to sign the quick claim deed as a favor to him , on Sept. 17, 2019. My mom was in hospice, unable to communicate and unresponsive...could I sue the notary, the notary has caused so many problems regarding my mom's estate.

Hello. We're sorry, but any questions about potential success of a lawsuit would need to be answered by an attorney.

leela

12 Mar 2021

My Ex-Husband after divorce forced me to sign Quit claim deed on our property which was jointly owned, I refused to sign as the divorce agreement (2011) said we should sell the property. My Ex-husband instead of selling the property he forged my signature on loan document for this property and it was signed and sealed by the Notary public of cook county on March 2013. After a year or two when I found out, I filed a complained at the Local police station and even contacted our chase bank, but no one believed me. When I contacted lawyer, they all wanted huge retainer to start the case, I was financially broke after the Divorce as I had to file Bankruptcy and was taking care of 2 small kids. My Ex is still living in this property since 2012 and refuses to sell this property. Now on Feb 2021 Condo association sued me and my Ex for not making payments as we both are on the title and on also both our names are on the loan documents. When my Ex moved into this property he had his attorneys sent me threatening letters that if I am seen entering the building or talking to anyone in the building I will be arrested and they will seek OOP against me and file charges of harassments against me. I am not from this country even though I am citizen, I dont know how to protect myself and my kids, my Ex- just got won the case where he sexually molested both of our girls, even DCFS indicated my ex was sexual molestation for both minors and he was also arrested for aggravated sexual battery for both minors. Right now I am at DuPage court in illinois trying to protect our girls to get supervised visitation as the criminal case against my Ex-husband got dismissed due to high burden of proof. I am exhausted in everyway. Can you please guide me what should I do in regards to the property which is jointly owned but loan documents were forged and notarized by notary public and sealed, Can I go after the Notary public and sue my Ex ? My Ex is been living in the property since 2012, refusing to sell or rent this place and now is behind all sorts of payments on this property located on Michigan ave in Chicago. How can I protect myself from the damages/fines from this property and make my ex liable for all the payments please help.

Hello. We're sorry, but these are legal questions that would need to be answered by a qualified attorney.

Marcia Proven

11 Mar 2021

A mobile notary, to whom I was referred (but did not use for this very reason), has a FB 'business' page. Notary posted pictures of clients homes (outside) and made disparaging remarks about (it). Or, spoke about a signing - giving the city, some personal details about the customer, and some items he saw in the home at the signing.

Rene

08 Mar 2021

It the past Texas hasn't used Thumb printing. Has that change?

cathy miller

when you fill a notary journal and start a new one do we have to turn in the one that is filled? And if so where do we take it?

Irvin Bremler

I have been a Notary for a long time without a blemish on my record because as I understand the Notary laws of Missouri, a Notary does not make anything legal or illegal. Our duty as I understand is: Witnessing of a signature, identifying the signer and in case of jurat's, administering an oath. What is in or is not in a document is of no concern to the Notary.

Deborah D

11 Feb 2021

A Maryland notary notarize a document that she knew was false. I have reported her and in communication with notary fraud department. In Maryland where the charges if you notarized the document causing me to lose $16,000 from an annuity . Do I need to do a police report? Do I wait for the local Maryland office to respond back? And this would make that person liable for money is lost correct? That is what I'm reading.

12 Feb 2021

Hello. Any legal questions you have about filing a potential lawsuit would need to be answered by a qualified attorney.

Michele R.

10 Feb 2021

I have a question about a document that was notarized for a contract with the county in NYS. The document was signed with a false name that the notary never verified with identification because the signer and notary are friends. The signer also falsely signed as the CEO of a business. Is this document still legal?

Hello. We're sorry, but any questions about the legal status of a document would need to be answered by a qualified attorney.

Carole L Ryan

09 Feb 2021

Hi. I'd like to file a complaint against an attorney/notary who created & notarized new Estate documents for my mother, who has dementia. I'm in IL. Thank you

Hello. If you wish to report Notary misconduct, the telephone number for the Secretary of State's Index Department is 1-217-782-7017. If you wish to file a complaint about attorney misconduct, you should contact the Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission. Their website is: https://www.iardc.org/

Faith

08 Jan 2021

Hey, the notarizing fraud I know of with the mother, son and daughter in law has been happening in Wyoming. I would like to report her asap!

Hello. If you suspect a case of fraud, you should contact your local law enforcement agency as soon as possible to report it.

05 Jan 2021

Where do I go about reporting illegal notary? I know of a woman who keeps notarizing documents and titles for her son and daughter in-law.

06 Jan 2021

Hello. If you can please let us know what state you are located in, we can let you know if your state's Notary agency has a process in place to file a complaint against a Notary.

R. D. Brent

10 Dec 2020

Can I still become a notary public in the state of Maryland if I was in a car accident and was sued because my insurance had lapsed for payment? Yes I have paid my debt.

Hello. To qualify as a Maryland Notary, an applicant for a commission must: (a) be at least 18 years old, (b) be of good moral character and integrity and abilities, (c) live or have a place of employment or practice in the state of Maryland, (d) have completed the course of study and examination required by law (see “Course” and “Exam” below for the effective date), (e) if living in Maryland, be a resident of the senatorial district from which appointed, and if living outside Maryland, be a resident of a state that allows Maryland residents working in that state to serve as Notaries (ACM St. Gov’t 18-102[A]). A background check is conducted by the state for each applicant to disclose any criminal convictions and civil judgments entered against the applicant. It would be up to the state to decide if a civil judgment on your record disqualified you from holding a Notary commission.

Hope Mcdonald

14 Nov 2020

I have a question about what was the requirements to sign as a notary in indiana in 2004 for mortgage documents? Has it changed ? Just found out the person was not commissioned as a notary in any state that signed our mortgage papers and it has caused major problems.

17 Nov 2020

Hello. In order to perform any kind of notarization-not just for signatures on mortgage documents-an Indiana Notary Public must hold an official Notary commission issued by the state.

Victoria Bell

10 Nov 2020

Hello, my workplace allows several individuals to use the Notary's stamp AND forge her signature on pay applications, even when the Notary is in the office. How may I report and stay anonymous, due to fear of retaliation? Thanks you, Las Vegas, NV

13 Nov 2020

Hello. You may wish to contact the Secretary of State's Notary Division at 775-684-5708 to request instructions in reporting misconduct.

Jeffrey Smith

08 Nov 2020

If you got your notary revoked in Mississippi how long you have to wait to get it back?

Hello. A person who has had a Notary commission revoked, suspended, restricted or denied may be subject to denial of a new Notary commission in Mississippi by the Secretary of State's office. This denial may not be appealed if the applicant had an application or Notary commission revoked within the past 5 years. (Section 25-33-1 et seq. Mississippi Code of 1972 as amended)

Elizabeth Byrd

02 Nov 2020

Why would any lawyer notarize a durable power of attorney as “personal knowledge” on very first meeting of the individual.

Marce

29 Oct 2020

I had to get a form i9 completed by a notary by instructions from my employer. She didn't want to complete it so I had to complete the information in the page 2, refused to sign the document and held it until she would speak to my employer, which she did. Now I am supposed to pick up my document and she informed me she is charging me 40 dlls for the service which consisted of 1 document that was notarized and the form i9 she had to sign. I think it is excessive and she didn't do her job well. This happened in CT. I have her license number. Is this something I need to report? and where?

Hello. Normally, there is no Notary certificate wording included in the I-9 form, nor is a Notary asked to affix his or her seal to the form. Acting as an authorized representative for an I-9 form is not a notarial act, and and therefore not within the scope of state mandated fees for performing notarial services. Please see this article for more information: https://www.nationalnotary.org/notary-bulletin/blog/2014/08/i-9-forms-notaries-need-to-know

Xavier

28 Oct 2020

A person that calls himself "notary" charged my brother $30 for notarizing a vehicle transfer of ownership document, here in NC, we did it because it was a Sunday and couldnt find no one else, just found out the max amount he should have charge him is $5. Should I report him? Rumours and google reviews say he likes to rip off people, came to find that out after everything was done. SMH.

Hello. It is up to you if you wish to report a Notary for suspected violations of state law.

Peter

We had a notary falsify our refinancing on our home loan after we left the closing, by changing the date on our rescind form and initializing the changes with our initials. The loan has now been delayed and caused us problems. What can we do?

Hello. You may wish to contact the lender to report the situation and find out what options are available to you.

Eugene Torlucci Jr

24 Oct 2020

I refinanced my mortgage in 2015 here in NJ. The notary had me sign an affidavit stating that a lien was being removed from my property that was from my late father both of us having similar names. Months went by and it was discovered that a HUGE mistake occurred that was being corrected after all my car and mortgage payments increased and loss of all credit cards. After hundreds of submissions to officials there since has been no recourse as the lender and title agents closed down all their offices on my behalf to avoid punishment leaving me in serious delinquency. Is it fair I should have to forfeit my second home becoming disabled after being sued for a lien that wasn't mine? And trying to prove that I was not born in 1938 as to 1962 for the rest of my life? At this time in 2020 after already being in a long term recession I am facing another among us all and have to seek assistance after 39 years in the workforce and always maintained an 801 credit score since my teens and managed to own 2 homes......God have mercy.

Jacob Sumner

05 Oct 2020

We have a situation where in Oregon the Notary did not keep records and signed off on a senile persons request for change of will. No retraction of original will

Rosalie Maskil

03 Oct 2020

I'm fighting over some property. The other person had someone or signed a dead persons name this person was deceased 4 months before the papers were signed and that shows up by the notary stamp to. Now how do I go about taken care of this.

Hello. We're sorry, but for any advice on how to conduct a legal action, you need to contact a qualified attorney.

Henry Raford

27 Sep 2020

Notary did some paper for me but there notary was exprie.

REBECCA WRIGHT

16 Aug 2020

What happens when a notary sign a document six days after the witnesses signed their signatures

17 Aug 2020

Margarita

16 Jul 2020

I’m in Texas and my boss paid for my notary since we have to use one a lot for our documents. I’ve only used it at work with him signing papers. I think he’s used my stamp and forged my name on some documents when I was absent and accidentally left my stamp at my desk. What do I need to do?

17 Jul 2020

Hello. According to Attorney General Opinion GA-0723, the employer is not the owner of a Texas Notary's seal and journal even if the Notary tools were paid for by the employer, and the seal and journal should remain in the Notary's possession at all times. When not in use, your seal and journal should be stored in a secure, locked location to prevent anyone else from unauthorized access.

Sarah

05 Jul 2020

Can a notary that is working for a law firm from home in Maryland use her acess to personal records and information for personal use?... For example they use their acess to look up people for their friend including sending pictures or PDF files through text and emails of personal informaion?

06 Jul 2020

Hello. You would need to speak with someone at your law firm to answer any questions about privacy policies put in place by your employer. Please see The Notary Public Code of Professional Responsibility (https://www.nationalnotary.org/knowledge-center/reference-library/notary-public-code-of-professional-responsibility) for general recommended ethical guidelines regarding Notaries and privacy. .

Leonard Wooten

15 Jun 2020

I was just curious. I am in the State of Michigan. How or what is required if you are Notarizing a document for non responsive person in the Hospital or in Hospice? Should you just deny the signing?

Hello. You should not perform a notarization if the signer is unresponsive or unable to communicate with you in any way.

Imelda Prakelt

10 Jun 2020

My SO use the same bank. He was able to notarized the quit claim deed from the bank without my appearance & able submit the document to be recorded to maricopa county, AZ which transferred the title of my house. Would you say the notary failed to protect the signer by not requiring the appearance & proper ID & violated the acknowledgment.

11 Jun 2020

Hello. Any questions about a legal dispute would need to be answered by a qualified attorney.

Marie G

28 Apr 2020

The sister also purchased a second stamp to use at her office. So she has 2

My apologies, Georgia

Hello. You can contact the Georgia Superior Court Clerks' Cooperative Authority (https://www.gsccca.org/notary-and-apostilles/notaries/georgia-notary-law) or you may wish to contact local law enforcement.

My employer has his sisters notary stamp and has his daughter sign the sisters name and notary stamp to pay applications. He tries to make me do it but I refuse, who do I need to contact to report him

Hello. To help us answer your question, can you please tell us what state you are located in?

Jacqueline Baldwin

26 Apr 2020

A notary In florida presented me with a one page document, pointing to a line to sign. Turns out this was a warranty deed transferring my HOMES into another mans name, my neighbor who wanted to purchase them. I was told I was going to notary to do title search on home. Several issues with notary, 1) notary prepared warranty deed, unauthorized practice of law 2) notary backdated document a year and a day prior to signing 3) notary did not acknowledge, she couldnt have since I was not given all pages of document to acknowledge Will document be voidable or is it void?

27 Apr 2020

Hello. Any legal questions about the validity of a document would need to be answered by an attorney. If you suspect you are a victim of Notary fraud, we strongly recommend you notify law enforcement and the state Notary-regulating office as soon as possible.

Tierra

10 Mar 2020

The quit deed to my trailer and the land was forged by a notary public in Alabama. Her boss told her to sign his wife's name. She willingly complied and forged the document with ne unaware and they took it to court(without me knowing) can I use the notary that forged signature and her boss? They also went before the court (I wasn't present) because I wasn't aware of it...anyway, they lied and told the courts that I was a week to week tenant. I have a copy of the original deed that she forged. Her boss addmitted to a sherriff on a,different incident that it was forged! What can I do. Can they held held responsible(the notary public and or her boss accountable?) Even if their stampnwasnt used?

12 Mar 2020

Hello. We apologize, but the NNA cannot provide advice on legal matters or legal disputes. You would need to speak to a qualified attorney to answer any questions about possible legal options in your situation.

Mary Durkin

05 Mar 2020

Is a deed legal if the Notary's husband signed the deed as a witness and her signature was lacking?

Robert Gordon

04 Mar 2020

My wife and I Were selling a condo in June 2019 in MA. My wife works for a real Estate atty. She announced she wanted a divorce. She had my signature on the deed already for buyers bank. My wife who is a notary brought it to a friend notary and had the deed notarized and then my wife recorded the deed. Then held the proceeds check for months with her divorce Atty. I would not have sold the property had I known of the plan. Were they both wrong with there licences to be a notary.

Hello. If you believe that someone improperly notarized your signature without your knowledge or consent, you should contact local law enforcement or your state Notary-regulating agency to file a report and request assistance.

Robert Beresford

02 Feb 2020

My question is regarding Florida Laws. I have three quit claim deeds that are forged. The Notary involved was asked about these documents and they stated they were fraud in May 2019. Their Commission expired in August 2019 and they stilk havent reported this theft to Tallahassee and a property hearing concerning one of the three document goes to court this week which is to quiet the title and both parties are the committing fraud as well as the Notary...How can this be dealt with because local law enforcement tells me the Notary is the 1st victim that has to report the misuse of her stamp but instead of notifying authorities the notary produce an affidavit stating one document was a fogery but ignoring the others that would also be discarded in my favor as only living relative. Instead two people are fighting over property they've stolen by fraud

05 Feb 2020

Hello. We are sorry, but you will need to contact a qualified attorney for legal advice on how to proceed with any fraud issue in court.

Joy

23 Jan 2020

A wrecker service notary notarized and forged my dads home deed and life insurance policy to her mother my dads sister without my dads being present and forged his signature to do it happened the day before he went into the hospital And my dads sisters daughter stole all his deeds and insurance policy and took my name off I’m his only daughter and no notary was present with him signing he informed me and he was on house bound and he wasn’t able to leave home , he didn’t sign nothing in front of his sisters notary they forged it while he was on hospice

Jane

18 Jan 2020

I recently had a Failure to Appear for a class a Misdemeanor for a traffic ticket in Whiteville, NC. Will this cause me to not be able to keep my Notary License?

22 Jan 2020

Hello. North Carolina rules for disqualification are as follows: "The Secretary of State may deny an application for commission or recommission based on (t)he applicant’s conviction or plea of admission or nolo contendere to a felony or any crime involving dishonesty or moral turpitude. In no case may a commission be issued to an applicant within 10 years after release from prison, probation, or parole, whichever is later” (GS 10B-5[d][2]). “A notary public may not hold public office if he or she: • Has been convicted of a felony under North Carolina or federal law. • Has been convicted of a felony in another state that is also considered a felony under North Carolina law. • Has been convicted of corruption or malpractice in any office. • Has been removed from any office by impeachment. “All of these constitutional disqualifications prevent anyone from holding the office of notary public if his or her citizenship rights have not been restored in the manner prescribed by law. However, individuals who have been incarcerated or placed on probation are able to submit an application for consideration provided that 10 years have passed since the applicant’s last day of prison, parole, or probation. G.S. 10B-5(d)(2)” (NC Notary Public Guide).

Sherry Sigmon

17 Jan 2020

What if a notary uses a different spelling of their name like Gale instead of Gail. I'm in NC.

Hello. A Notary should always sign and write their name exactly as it appears on their Notary commission.

Kristy broussard

12 Jan 2020

Okay is it illegal paperwork to be before a notary or it does it have to be signed in front of the notary for it to be legal .... Im asking bc i signed provisional custody by mandate form for medical purposes only for 6 months to my God mother but it wasn't in front of a notary ... And my God mother had two witnesses signed and said that she will get it notarized by a notary ... Now i know that in fact that im supposed to have a copy of the form as well as her and the notary .. my God mother refuses to give me a copy ... Im from lousiana ... And i need to know what can i do about it

13 Jan 2020

Hello. We're sorry, but any questions about the legality of a medical custody document would need to be answered by a qualified attorney.

Audrey Sehlmeyer

03 Jan 2020

What is the validity of a document if it was notarized by a non-notary using the actual notarys stamp in their absence.

07 Jan 2020

Hello. A Notary stamp cannot be used by anyone except the commissioned Notary.

Jeremiah McDaniel

13 Dec 2019

I need to report a notary for falsifying documents . I’m thinking about seeing and want his Notary privileges taken away . Who do I speak to to report his crime .

To help us answer your question, can you please tell us what state you are located in?

lavenia higdon

26 Oct 2019

I have questions on a estate that I believe has been handled wrongly. I believe that forgery has occurred on my husband's inheritance. I want to obtain all documents signed and registered threw the county clerk's office. How can I get all documents to look over and be sure the estate has been fine correctly

28 Oct 2019

Hello. You would need to contact the county clerk's office directly to ask how you can obtain the documents you wish to examine.

Kathy Frank

02 Oct 2019

I am a notary. I was informed of a UPS Store at 326 E. 65th Street, New York 10065 of unbelievable charges for documents. I have a photo of the charges that were posted. I phoned this store and was told that these were fair and lawful charges and did inform them that these were definitely not. These are so unfortunate that I felt that I had to report them. A friend took this picture. She then knew I was a notary and took these to me. My Notary Number is 31-o1-FR4844316 Commission Expires April 30, 2013. I don't have a copy I can attach of these charges. If you will tell me where to send the photo I will be happy to send it in. Example: UPS Staff Witness: $10.00 each witness. Deed: $30.00 along with other notarial fees, etc.

Hello. Please follow the instructions at this link to submit a complaint to the NY Division of Licensing Services: https://www.dos.ny.gov/licensing/complaint.html

sirageldin a osman

12 Nov 2018

Nice

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