MI Notary Michigan Notary Laws and Statutes

Question 1

Which Michigan statute primarily governs the powers and duties of notaries public?

Accepted Answer

Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) 55.261 et seq.

Answer

The Michigan Notary Public Act, found at MCL 55.261 and following sections, is the primary statute governing Michigan notaries.

Question 2

Under Michigan law, what is the penalty for a notary who knowingly makes a false notarial act?

Accepted Answer

Criminal prosecution for a misdemeanor or felony and revocation of commission

Answer

A Michigan notary who willfully makes a false notarization may face criminal charges and revocation of their notary commission.

Question 3

Under Michigan law, may a notary notarize a document in which they have a direct financial interest?

Accepted Answer

No, a notary should not notarize documents where they are a named party or have a direct financial interest

Answer

Michigan notary law prohibits notaries from notarizing documents in which they have a direct financial or beneficial interest.

Question 4

What does Michigan law require a notary to do if a document signer appears to be under duress or coerced?

Accepted Answer

Refuse to perform the notarization

Answer

A notary must not complete a notarization if the signer appears to be acting under duress or is being coerced—refusal is required.

Question 5

Under Michigan law, is a notary authorized to provide legal advice about the documents they notarize?

Accepted Answer

No, providing legal advice is outside the scope of notary authority unless the notary is licensed to practice law

Answer

A notary who is not a licensed attorney is prohibited from providing legal advice or selecting legal forms on behalf of signers.

MI Notary - Michigan Notary Exam Practice Test