What action should notaries take if they suspect fraud during the notarization process?

Notaries hold a crucial role in ensuring the integrity of the notarization process, and they are trained to identify potential fraud. When a notary suspects that fraud may be occurring during a notarization—such as when the signer appears to be acting under duress, presenting false identification, or otherwise misleading the notary—the appropriate course of action is to refuse to notarize the document.

This decision protects both the notary and the public from the repercussions of notarizing a fraudulent document. By refusing to complete the notarization, the notary is taking a stand against potentially illegal activities and upholding the ethical standards of their profession. Choosing this path not only safeguards the legal process but also maintains the notary’s credibility and integrity as a trustworthy public official.

Continuing with the notarization process, consulting with the signer, or reporting to the authorities post-notarization do not adequately address the immediate suspicion of fraud and can have significant legal and ethical implications. Notaries are trained to act swiftly and effectively in the face of any signs of fraud, reflecting their responsibility to uphold the law.