GA Notary Ethical Considerations and Responsibilities

Question 1

What is a notary's duty if they are presented with a document that they believe to be fraudulent?

Accepted Answer

Refuse to notarize the document

Answer

Proceed with the notarization if requested

Answer

Sign the document but mark it as "fraudulent"

Answer

Report the document to a higher authority

Question 2

How should a notary handle a situation where they know a signer is unable to understand the document due to a language barrier?

Accepted Answer

Use an interpreter to assist the signer

Answer

Proceed with the notarization

Answer

Refuse to notarize unless the signer provides a translated version

Answer

Notarize the document and leave the understanding to the signer

Question 3

If a notary is asked to perform a notarial act for a document that they have a personal interest in, what should they do?

Accepted Answer

Refuse to perform the notarial act

Answer

Proceed with the notarization if they can remain impartial

Answer

Disclose their interest to the other party involved

Answer

Perform the act but avoid signing the document themselves

Question 4

What is considered a conflict of interest for a notary public?

Accepted Answer

Notarizing a document for a family member

Answer

Notarizing a document for a neighbor

Answer

Notarizing a document in the notary's office

Answer

Notarizing documents for clients at a local business

Question 5

What should a notary do if they are approached by a signer who appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs?

Accepted Answer

Refuse to perform the notarial act and suggest the signer return later

Answer

Proceed with the notarization to avoid inconvenience

Answer

Allow the signer to have a witness present

Answer

Perform the act but note the condition of the signer on the document