What happens if a notary's seal is lost or stolen?

When a notary's seal is lost or stolen, it is critical to take immediate action to ensure the integrity of the notarization process. The correct response emphasizes the necessity of notifying and obtaining a replacement seal from the Department of State. This requirement underscores the importance of maintaining proper records and ensuring that the notary's authority is not compromised.

In Florida, notaries are required to use their official seal for all notarizations, which serves as a safeguard against fraud and ensures that documents are properly authenticated. Failing to replace a lost or stolen seal could lead to the invalidation of notarizations performed during that lapse, exposing the notary to potential legal repercussions and undermining public trust in the notarization process.

While it is important to contact local law enforcement regarding the theft for legal protection, the primary obligation towards maintaining the notary's authority and compliance with state requirements lies in notifying the Department of State and obtaining a replacement seal immediately. Actions such as continuing to perform notarizations without an official seal or waiting until the renewal of the commission are not advisable as they could lead to unauthorized notarizations and potential legal ramifications.