Indiana Notary Public Practice Exam

When might a notary face disciplinary action?

1. When they charge for rush service

2. When they fail to properly identify a signer

3. When they provide legal advice

4. When they change their commission details

The correct answer is: When they fail to properly identify a signer

A notary might face disciplinary action when they fail to properly identify a signer. This is a critical responsibility for notaries because verifying the identity of the signer is fundamental to the integrity of the notarization process. If a notary does not take adequate steps to confirm that the individual appearing before them is indeed who they claim to be, it can lead to fraudulent activities or disputes regarding the authenticity of the document. Ensuring proper identification protects both the notary and the public from potential fraud. In contrast, charging for rush service can be acceptable if it aligns with the notary's fees and the regulations set forth by the state. Providing legal advice can lead to legal repercussions, but it is not directly tied to the notary's duties unless they are overstepping their boundaries into unauthorized practice of law. Changing commission details might require proper notification or following specific procedures, but it is not inherently a reason for disciplinary action unless it involves misconduct or falsification.