What should a Notary Public do if they cannot verify the signer's identity?

When a Notary Public is unable to verify the signer's identity, the appropriate course of action is to refuse to notarize the document. This decision is fundamental to maintaining the integrity of the notarization process, as it protects against potential fraud and ensures that notaries perform their duties responsibly.

Notaries are required to establish the identity of signers through satisfactory evidence, which can include identification documents or the testimony of credible witnesses. If a Notary cannot confirm a signer's identity, proceeding with the notarization would undermine the legal significance of the act and could expose the notary to liability.

Ensuring that identity verification is completed protects the notary, the parties involved, and the integrity of the legal documents being notarized. Therefore, the refusal to notarize in such situations is not just a safe practice; it is a necessary one in order to uphold the standards and responsibilities that come with being a Notary Public.