What to Do After Completing a Notarization

What Should a Notary Do After Completing a Notarization?

Becoming a notary is like gaining entry into a club where every action must be taken with diligence and precision. But what happens when you’ve completed the notarial act? That’s the million-dollar question! This is where many aspiring notaries get tangled up. Let’s break it down.

Ensure the Signature Is Affixed

First on the list is making sure that the signature of the signer is indeed affixed to the document. You might think, "Isn’t that a no-brainer?" But it’s a critical step that validates your work as a notary. The signature isn’t just a flourish—it’s what binds the act of notarization to the document itself. Missing a signature is like baking a cake without flour; it just doesn’t hold together!

Once you confirm the signature is there, you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that the notarization process is moving in the right direction. This leads us to our next crucial step.

Record the Act in Your Journal

Ah, the notary journal! Some might think of it as just another boring book, but think again! This little gem is a cornerstone of your notarial duties. Recording the details of the notarization in your journal isn’t merely a formality—it's documenting a legal action that could protect both you and the signer down the road.

Here’s the thing: your journal isn’t just a record; it’s a shield against potential disputes and a solid piece of evidence should questions arise later. We’re talking about protecting your professional integrity here! In many states, maintaining a journal is not just good practice; it’s a legal requirement. So, be diligent! What should go in that journal?

• Date and time of the notarization
• The type of documents signed
• Names and addresses of each signer
• Any identification presented (like a driver’s license or passport)
• Your signature and the type of notarization performed

Each of these entries adds a layer of protection, creating a reliable chronology of events. It’s not just a task; it’s accountability in action.

The Misunderstood Responsibilities

Now, let’s take a brief detour to a question that often bubbles up at this stage: "Should I provide a copy of the notarized document to the signer?" This is where you might have to navigate the waters of your specific state’s laws. Sometimes you can, but many times, you can’t legally do that. It’s best to check your state’s requirements to avoid any pitfalls.

Oh, and how about filing the document with local authorities? In certain scenarios, sure, that’s necessary. But remember, that’s not a part of your immediate post-notarization checklist. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation!

And, just to clarify, destroying any related documents isn’t in your playbook either. Notaries have a responsibility to preserve the integrity of their records. It’s more akin to being a librarian than a paper shredder.

A Final Note on Importance

Keep in mind, the entire notarization process, from ensuring signatures are collected correctly to maintaining detailed records, underscores the importance of consistency and integrity within your role. Think of yourself as the guardian of trust in transactions. As mundane as it might seem, every verification, every sign-off, adds to the tapestry of legal authenticity. You stand at the intersection of legal validation and personal trust, and that’s no small feat!

In summary, after you've done a notarization, ensure the signature is there, and record the act in your journal. That’s the real meat of it. Studying for your Florida Notary Exam? Make these steps your mantra! Remember, the thoroughness of your efforts pays off, not just in passing your exam but in professional practice for years to come.