FREE NH Notary Ethical Standards Questions and Answers

Question 1

What should a New Hampshire notary public do if they are asked to notarize a document without the signer being present?

Accepted Answer

Refuse to notarize the document

Answer

Notarize the document if they know the signer personally

Answer

Have the signer fax a copy of their ID

Answer

Notarize the document and note the absence of the signer

Question 2

Is it ethical for a New Hampshire notary public to notarize a document in which they have a direct financial or beneficial interest?

Accepted Answer

No, under any circumstances

Answer

Yes, as long as they disclose the interest

Answer

Yes, if the interest is minor

Answer

Yes, with permission from the Secretary of State

Question 3

What is the ethical obligation of a New Hampshire notary public if they are asked to notarize a document with blank spaces?

Accepted Answer

Refuse to notarize until all blanks are filled

Answer

Notarize the document as requested

Answer

Fill in the blanks themselves

Answer

Notarize and advise the signer to fill in the blanks later

Question 4

If a New Hampshire notary public is uncertain about the legality of a notarization, what should they do?

Accepted Answer

Contact the Secretary of State for guidance

Answer

Proceed with the notarization to avoid inconveniencing the client

Answer

Seek advice from a lawyer

Answer

Make a judgment call based on their experience

Question 5

A friend asks a New Hampshire notary public to notarize a document without charging a fee. Is this ethical?

Accepted Answer

Yes, notaries can waive the fee at their discretion

Answer

No, all notarizations must include a fee

Answer

Yes, but only if the document is not legally binding

Answer

No, waiving fees is against notary regulations