SECURING YOUR STAMP, SEAL AND JOURNAL

May 01.2023

It is very important that you keep your stamp, seal and journal under lock key when not in use. These tools of our trade carry the weight and authority of the state. If someone were to ever use these tools without your knowledge, you are still responsible for that notarial act and would still be subject to civil and or criminal penalties resulting in possible imprisonment and any fines imposed by the court.

Note: It is NEVER permissible for you to allow someone to borrow these items either.

Furthermore, your stamp, seal and journal should NEVER be left in your vehicle or in your unlocked desk at work/home. I cannot stress this enough……particularly those of you that are a notary for a large company. The temptation for someone to use your tools while you are at lunch or away from your desk to notarize fraudulent documents that would favor them such as Powers of Attorney or Wills is just too great.

Also, someone may want to try and see what documents and for whom you have recorded in your journal. This information can then be used nefariously against the person that trusted you with their private information.

Ultimately, you would be held responsible for these situations.

Bottom Line: LOCK IT UP!!