What should a notary do first if in doubt about a document's authenticity?

In situations where a notary is uncertain about a document's authenticity, the most prudent first step is to refuse the request based on suspicion. This action is aligned with the notary's responsibility to ensure that all signatures are genuine and that they can confidently attest to the credibility of the document. If a notary has any doubts about the authenticity or legitimacy of the document or the signer, they have the professional and legal obligation to refrain from notarizing it.

By opting to refuse the request, the notary protects not only their own legal standing but also prevents potential fraud or the endorsement of a document that may lead to future legal complications. This approach underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of the notarization process and highlights that the notary should only proceed when they have sufficient confidence in the authenticity of the document and the identity of the signer.