Utah Notary Practice Test

True or False: A notary must prioritize the interests of the company they work for over the public.

1. True

2. False

3. Only true for hourly contract notaries

4. Only true for companies with strict guidelines

The correct answer is: False

A notary's primary responsibility is to serve the public interest rather than the interests of any single employer or business entity. This professional obligation stems from the role of a notary as an impartial witness to the signing of documents and the verification of identities. When a notary performs their duties, they must uphold the integrity of the notarial act, ensuring that it is conducted fairly, honestly, and without bias. This commitment helps to maintain public trust in the notarial process. A notary must remain neutral, meaning they cannot favor their employer or any party involved in the transaction over the rights and interests of the individual seeking notarization. This principle is crucial for protecting the integrity of the legal processes in which notaries participate. Focusing on the task at hand, the responsibilities of a notary do include following the laws and regulations set forth by the state, but those regulations are designed to safeguard public interest and not the profit motives of a business. Therefore, prioritizing the company's interests above the public's would violate these ethical standards and legal requirements.