Illinois Notary Primer Practice Exam

What action should a notary take if they suspect coercion during a notarization?

1. Continue with the notarization

2. Notify law enforcement

3. Refuse to notarize the document

4. Ask for a witness

The correct answer is: Refuse to notarize the document

When a notary suspects coercion during a notarization, the most appropriate action is to refuse to notarize the document. Notaries have a legal and ethical obligation to ensure that the signing parties are doing so voluntarily and without any pressure or intimidation. Coercion undermines the integrity of the notarization process, which is meant to verify that a person is acting of their own free will. By refusing to notarize, the notary protects themselves and helps maintain the legitimacy of the notarial act. This choice aligns with the core responsibilities of a notary, which include confirming the identity of the signers and ensuring that they are signing freely. Continuing with the notarization under conditions of suspicion would not only violate ethical standards but could also expose the notary to legal liability. Similarly, notifying law enforcement could be appropriate in serious situations, but the notary must first prevent the act of notarization from occurring under questionable circumstances. Asking for a witness might not effectively address the issue of coercion, as it does not eliminate the possibility that the signer is being forced or pressured into signing. Therefore, the refusal to notarize is both the most responsible action and the one that best protects all parties involved.