CO Notary Fees, Liability & Prohibited Acts 2

Question 1

What happens if a Colorado notary performs a notarial act knowing the signer is making a false statement?

Accepted Answer

The notary may face criminal liability for aiding a false document

Answer

The notary is not responsible for the signer's statements

Answer

Only the signer bears responsibility

Answer

The act is voidable but the notary faces no penalty

Question 2

Can a Colorado notary refuse to notarize a document for any reason?

Accepted Answer

Yes, notaries have discretion to refuse for legitimate reasons

Answer

No, notaries must notarize all documents presented

Answer

Only if the document is illegal

Answer

Only if the signer is unknown to them

Question 3

What is considered unauthorized practice of law for a Colorado notary?

Accepted Answer

Drafting legal documents for another person for compensation

Answer

Completing a notarial certificate

Answer

Informing a signer of the notary fee

Answer

Explaining what an acknowledgment is

Question 4

A Colorado notary who is also a licensed attorney may provide legal advice:

Accepted Answer

In their capacity as an attorney, but must clearly separate the two roles

Answer

Only in their capacity as a notary

Answer

Never — the roles are incompatible

Answer

Only for notarization-related questions

Question 5

Which action could result in revocation of a Colorado notary commission?

Accepted Answer

Notarizing a document with known blanks

Answer

Charging the maximum allowed fee

Answer

Using an embossed seal

Answer

Maintaining the required journal

Question 6

What civil liability can a Colorado notary face for a negligent notarization?

Accepted Answer

Liability for damages caused to parties who relied on the improper notarization

Answer

No liability — notaries are immune

Answer

Only up to the fee charged for that notarization

Answer

Only liability if the error was intentional