How long does a Notary Public have to respond to written requests from the Secretary of State?

A Notary Public is required to respond to written requests from the Secretary of State within 30 days or within any specific time frame that the request may outline. This requirement ensures that the Secretary of State can effectively carry out oversight and regulatory functions related to notaries. Timely responses are crucial in maintaining the integrity of the notarial process and addressing any concerns or inquiries that may arise regarding notarial acts.

The 30-day timeline allows notaries enough time to gather necessary information without unduly delaying the investigation or inquiry by the Secretary of State. This policy is important for compliance and accountability within the notarial profession.

However, if the Secretary of State specifies a different response time frame in the request, the notary must adhere to that specific timeline instead. The flexibility in response times acknowledges that certain requests may require more urgent attention or immediate action, depending on the circumstances surrounding the inquiry.