Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, if proceeding with notarization would cause you to commit a prohibited act, or if any of the required elements/criteria for performance of a proper Florida notarization are missing. Situations that may require you to refuse include when you doubt that the signer is competent or willing to execute the document; or you are being asked to bend a rule of notarization such as requiring the signer to be present before you; or the document presented for notarization is clearly incomplete.

If you are an employee-notary your employer controls how you manage your time and tasks while on the job, so you may need to refuse a notarization requested during business hours. If you must refuse for this reason, you may offer to perform the notarization during non-work hours.

Use your best judgment, and always know and follow notarial law, when weighing whether you must refuse a notarization.