Under what control must the journal be kept when not in use?

The journal used by a notary public must be kept under direct and exclusive control when not in use. This means that the notary is responsible for ensuring that only they can access the journal, thus maintaining the confidentiality and security of the sensitive information it contains. The notary must take precautions to prevent unauthorized access, which is crucial for protecting the privacy of signers and the integrity of the notarization process.

In California, notaries are required to keep their journals secure. This includes storing the journal in a locked location when not in use and ensuring that they are the only person who can access it. This practice helps prevent misuse or tampering, reinforcing the importance of accountability and responsibility in the role of a notary public. Keeping the journal under direct and exclusive control is not only a matter of best practices but also aligns with legal requirements that govern notarial conduct in California.