What should a notary do if they suspect a signer is being coerced?

When a notary suspects that a signer is being coerced, the appropriate action is to refuse to notarize the document. This is crucial because notarization requires that the signer is acting willingly and free from duress. The role of the notary is to ensure that the signer is not under any pressure that could compromise their ability to make a free and informed decision regarding the document they are signing.

If a notary proceeds with the notarization despite suspicions of coercion, they risk legal and ethical repercussions, as notarizing a document under these circumstances could invalidate the notarization and expose the notary to liability. Ensuring the integrity of the notarization process is paramount, and maintaining the signer's autonomy is a key part of that responsibility.

While contacting law enforcement may seem like an appropriate action in some contexts, it is not within a notary's role to intervene in matters of potential criminal activity directly, unless there is an immediate threat. Taking the signer's word for their own consent without further assessing the situation could lead to complications if coercion is indeed taking place, undermining the essential functions of the notary.