What should a Notary do if they suspect a signer is being coerced?

If a Notary suspects that a signer is being coerced, the appropriate action is to refuse to notarize the document. This decision is grounded in the Notary's responsibility to ensure that the signer is acting freely and voluntarily. Notarization requires the assurance that the individual signing the document does so without duress or undue influence. If there are signs of coercion, the Notary must prioritize the integrity of the notarization process and the well-being of the signer. By refusing to notarize, the Notary protects both the legal validity of the document and the rights of the signer, as proceeding with notarization under such circumstances could lead to significant legal issues and potential liability. Therefore, the refusal to notarize is a critical measure aimed at upholding ethical standards and legal requirements in the notarization process.