What can a notary do if they are unsure about the legality of a document?

A notary must act within the bounds of their role and not venture into the realm of providing legal advice. When faced with uncertainty regarding the legality of a document, seeking legal advice is the most prudent and responsible course of action. This approach ensures that the notary can confirm that the document complies with applicable laws and regulations before proceeding with the notarization.

By consulting with a legal professional, the notary can protect themselves from potential liability and ensure they are acting within the law. Notaries have a duty to uphold the integrity of the notarization process, and making uninformed decisions could lead to ethical violations or legal complications.

Engaging with legal counsel creates an opportunity for the notary to clarify any doubts about the document's validity and to ensure they are fulfilling their responsibilities properly. This helps maintain the professionalism expected of notaries and protects the interests of all parties involved.