Can a notary public take and certify an acknowledgment of a document in which they have an interest?

A notary public must operate under principles of impartiality and neutrality. This is essential to maintain the integrity of the notarial act and to ensure that all parties can trust the validity of the notarization process. When a notary has a financial or personal interest in a document, it can compromise their ability to act objectively and could lead to questions about the validity of the notarization.

In Ohio, as well as in many other jurisdictions, a notary is prohibited from notarizing documents in which they have an interest. This rule protects not only the parties involved but also preserves the public's trust in the notarial system. By refraining from acting in situations where they have a conflict of interest, notaries help prevent any potential fraud or undue influence, thereby ensuring that the notarization process remains trustworthy and reliable.

This principle is essential for the protection of all stakeholders, and any exceptions that might appear to permit a conflict of interest, such as disclosures or the presence of witnesses, do not alter the fundamental requirement for impartiality that governs notarial acts.