Which duty must notaries take seriously to avoid misconduct penalties?

Notaries must take the duty of keeping informed of the law regarding their duties seriously because this knowledge is essential for performing their role correctly and legally. Understanding the statutes, regulations, and best practices that govern notary services ensures that notaries avoid errors that could lead to legal issues or misconduct penalties. Being informed helps notaries to perform their responsibilities, such as verifying identities, administering oaths, and managing the signing of documents, effectively and ethically.

This duty also aligns with the notary's responsibility to uphold the integrity of the notarization process. If a notary is unaware of changes in the law or procedures, they might inadvertently engage in practices that are not compliant, leading to potential legal ramifications, fines, or the loss of their notarial commission. Therefore, continuous education and awareness of legal updates are vital components of a notary's professional responsibilities.