What should a notary do if there is confusion about the document's contents?

When faced with confusion about a document's contents, the notary's primary role is to ensure that the signer understands what they are affirming or signing without providing legal advice. Refusing to notarize the document is a prudent choice if clarity is lacking. This decision protects both the notary and the signer, as it upholds the integrity of the notarization process.

Notaries must avoid providing legal explanations or interpretations, as doing so could be construed as engaging in the practice of law without a license, which is not permitted. Additionally, reading the document aloud or offering to review it could lead to misunderstandings or imply that the notary is endorsing or interpreting the contents, which again is beyond their duties.

Ultimately, by refusing to notarize the document when there is confusion, the notary ensures that all parties involved are clear on the terms and implications of the document, fostering transparency and reducing the risk of future disputes.