WA Notary Notary Fees and Compensation 3

Question 1

A Washington notary advertises notary services in Spanish. Must they disclose they are not an attorney?

Accepted Answer

Yes, they must clearly state they are not an attorney and cannot give legal advice

Answer

Washington notaries who advertise in languages other than English must include a disclaimer that they are not attorneys and cannot give legal advice.

Question 2

Can a Washington notary practice law or give legal advice as part of their notary services?

Accepted Answer

No, notaries may not practice law or give legal advice unless they are also licensed attorneys

Answer

Notaries who are not licensed attorneys are prohibited from practicing law or giving legal advice in Washington.

Question 3

What term describes the illegal practice of a Washington notary presenting themselves as having legal authority they do not possess?

Accepted Answer

Unauthorized practice of law

Answer

When a notary acts as though they have legal authority they do not possess, it constitutes unauthorized practice of law, which is illegal in Washington.

Question 4

A Washington notary prepares immigration documents for a fee, claiming to be a 'notario.' Is this permissible?

Accepted Answer

No, using the title 'notario' to imply legal authority is deceptive and prohibited in Washington

Answer

In Washington, using the title 'notario' to imply legal expertise is deceptive because the term suggests attorney-like authority in Latin American cultures, which U.S. notaries do not have.

Question 5

Is a Washington notary required to post their fee schedule publicly?

Accepted Answer

No, there is no mandatory posting requirement

Answer

Washington does not require notaries to publicly post their fee schedules, though doing so is a transparent and professional practice.

WA Notary - Washington Notary Exam Practice Test

WA Notary - Washington Notary Exam Practice Test

WA Notary Notary Fees and Compensation 3