GI-Disposition of Notarial Record Books and Penalties

Question 1

How long shall the records of each notary public be maintained?

Answer 1

10 years

This period applies upon resignation, death, expiration of term, or revocation of commission.

Question 2

Who is responsible for maintaining the records of a notary public?

Answer 2

The notary public

Records must be maintained by the notary unless they are deceased, in which case the personal representative is responsible.

Question 3

What triggers the requirement for a notary public to maintain records for 10 years?

Answer 3

Resignation, death, expiration of term, revocation of commission

These events require records to be kept for auditing or inspection.

Question 4

What is the penalty for failing to comply with record maintenance within ninety days?

Answer 4

Forfeit to the State not less than $50 nor more than $500

The penalty is determined at the discretion of the court.

Question 5

Who can bring an action against a notary for non-compliance?

Answer 5

The Attorney General

The Attorney General acts on behalf of the State in such actions.

Question 6

Fill in the blank: If a notary fails to comply within ninety days of resignation, they shall forfeit to the State not less than _______.

Answer 6

$50

Question 7

True or False: A personal representative of a deceased notary has no obligations regarding record maintenance.

Answer 7

False

The personal representative must comply within ninety days of the notary’s death.