What is the purpose of the journal maintained by a Notary Public?

The primary purpose of the journal maintained by a Notary Public is to record notarizations. This journal serves as a chronological record of each notarial act performed, including essential details such as the date, time, type of document, the names of the signers, their signatures, and any other relevant information. This record is crucial not only for the Notary's personal reference but also for ensuring accountability and transparency in the notarization process. It provides a reliable means of tracing the Notary's activities and can be important if questions arise about a specific notarization or if there is a challenge to the authenticity of a document. Thus, the journal acts as a safeguard for both the Notary and the public, preserving the integrity of the notarization process.