Florida Notary Practice Exam

What must a Notary do if they believe a document is fraudulent?

1. Proceed with the notarization but note the suspicion

2. Refuse to notarize the document

3. Consult a lawyer before taking action

4. Notify the signer and provide a warning

The correct answer is: Refuse to notarize the document

When a Notary encounters a document they believe to be fraudulent, the appropriate action is to refuse to notarize the document. This course of action is crucial because notarization serves as a form of verification that the signer has willingly signed the document in the presence of the Notary, who must ensure that the document is legitimate and that the signer is who they claim to be. Notaries have a duty to maintain the integrity of the notarization process, and notarizing a fraudulent document could lead to legal trouble for both the Notary and the parties involved. By refusing to perform the notarization when there is a suspicion of fraud, the Notary protects themselves from liability and upholds their ethical responsibilities. In ensuring compliance with Florida's notary laws, it is also essential for Notaries to remain vigilant and diligent when assessing the authenticity of documents. This refusal serves to prevent potential frauds from being perpetrated, reinforcing the role of the Notary as a trusted public officer in the execution of documents. The other options might suggest less decisive actions, such as merely noting the suspicion or seeking legal advice, which may delay the proper course of action. Providing a warning to the signer also does not address the primary responsibility to refuse the notarization for a document