I recently was approached by an unethical person who apparently wished to engage a Notary, ...any Notary, in an endeavor whereby the act of notarization itself made the document a fraud. He apparently knew that this was an illegal act, and was fishing for a sucker so that he could say to others: "Look how many idiot notaries I've caught with my dumb trick". It was a situation where he was doing it either for laughs or to prove how clever he was...
Attempting to induce a Notary into committing fraud is in and of itself a crime. The issue seems to be one of "damage" and, at least in my mind, principles. At the time of this incident, my biggest concern was that I act in a manner that was professional, lawful and whereby my actions would be seen as having acted properly. I contacted the Secretary of State to ascertain my duty in the matter and at their request, forwarded copies of all the evidence I had in my possession along with an explanation. That was several months ago and I haven't heard even a peep. I never like it when the bad guys get away with it...
Occassionally, notaries are approached to back-date a document by a mortgage broker anxious to close the deal-usually at the end of the month. I decline all such inquiries and add that asking a Notary to do such a thing is a "NO-NO" and it is sometimes called FRAUD. I have both ended and created many working relationships by refusing to color outside the lines. Honestly, I'd rather take the high road...even if it takes a little longer to get there.
"A Quick Note"
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