What should a notary do if they are unable to read a document's contents?

If a notary is unable to read a document's contents, the most appropriate course of action is to not notarize the document. Notaries are required to ensure they fully understand the document they are notarizing, as it is essential to verify the identity of the signers and ensure that the document is being signed voluntarily and intelligently. If the notary cannot understand the document, they cannot adequately fulfill their duty to confirm that the signer understands what they are signing.

Not notarizing the document protects the integrity of the notarization process and upholds the legal responsibilities of the notary. It prevents potential issues that could arise from notarizing a document that the notary cannot comprehend, such as legal challenges or questions about the validity of the notarization. This decision ensures that the notary maintains professional standards and acts responsibly in their role.