What must a Notary Public do after completing a notarial act?

After completing a notarial act, a Notary Public is required to record the details of the notarization in their journal. This practice is essential for several reasons. First, maintaining a journal provides a chronological account of all notarial acts performed, which serves as a legal record that can be referenced if questions or disputes arise regarding the authenticity of a notarized document. This documentation helps protect both the Notary and the signers by providing a transparent record of the transaction.

Additionally, the journal entries typically include details such as the date and time of the notarization, the type of document involved, the names of the parties involved, and any identification information, ensuring that the Notary complies with state laws and best practices. It also aids in adjudicating any potential legal issues in the future, thereby reinforcing the credibility of the Notary Public's work. This systematic approach is foundational to the integrity and reliability of the notarization process.