What can a Notary Public do if their seal is damaged?

A Notary Public must take immediate action to maintain the integrity of their notarial duties when their seal is damaged. Notifying the Attorney General and obtaining a replacement seal is crucial because the seal is a vital tool for verifying the authenticity of notarial acts. The notary's seal not only serves as a form of identification but also signifies that the document has been properly notarized according to the law.

By alerting the appropriate authority, the notary ensures compliance with state regulations, which require that a notary public's seal remain in good and workable condition. This protects the public and prevents fraudulent actions. Without a proper seal, notarizations could potentially be called into question, leading to legal issues and diminished trust in the notary's services.

In contrast, using a damaged seal (continuing to notarize), stopping activities indefinitely, or attempting repairs personally would not align with professional standards and regulations governing notarial practices. These actions could risk legal repercussions and compromise the validity of documents that require notarization.