What should a Notary do if the signer is illiterate?

When a signer is illiterate, it is crucial for the notary to ensure that they fully understand the document they are about to sign. The notary's primary responsibility is to verify the identity of the signer and confirm their willingness and ability to sign the document without coercion. If a signer cannot read, the notary should provide assistance by explaining the contents of the document and ensuring that the signer comprehends it, possibly with the help of a trusted third party.

Allowing the signer to understand what they are signing is essential for maintaining the integrity of the notarial act and safeguarding the rights of the signer. Notaries should take care not to convey any information that would alter the content or meaning of the document itself, ensuring that any assistance is purely informational.

In contrast, refusing to notarize the document means the notary would not fulfill their duty to facilitate that process, which can leave the signer without legal recourse. Assisting the signer in reading the document would go beyond the notary's role and could lead to liability issues. Asking for a letter of consent is not a standard practice and would not directly address the need for the signer to understand the document. Therefore, ensuring the signer comprehends the document with necessary assistance is the