Illinois Notary Primer Practice Exam

What is one of the consequences for a notary if they perform a notarization improperly?

1. They will be given a raise

2. They may be held liable for damages caused

3. They will be celebrated

4. They will receive a warning

The correct answer is: They may be held liable for damages caused

When a notary performs a notarization improperly, one significant consequence is that they may be held liable for damages caused. Notaries are expected to adhere to specific duties and responsibilities imposed by law, including verifying the identity of signers and ensuring that the document is executed willingly and is free from coercion. If a notary fails to perform these duties correctly, it can lead to fraudulent activity, misinformation, or other legal issues that harm the parties involved. This improper notarization can trigger civil liabilities, meaning that the notary could be responsible for compensating any damages that occur as a result of their actions. Such liability serves as a reminder of the importance of diligence and attentiveness in their role. In contrast, the other options do not reflect realistic consequences of performing an improper notarization. The notary will not receive a raise or celebration for such actions, nor is it standard practice to simply issue a warning without the potential for liability in cases of significant errors.