New York State Notary Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

A notary public has a fundamental duty to ensure that their impartiality is maintained during all transactions. When faced with a potential conflict of interest, the appropriate course of action is to disclose the conflict and recuse themselves from the notarization process. This approach not only upholds the ethical standards required of a notary but also protects the integrity of the notarized document and the trust placed in the notarial process by the public.

Disclosing the conflict allows all parties involved to be aware of the situation and ensures that no party feels misled or unfairly treated. Recusing oneself safeguards against any perception of bias or undue influence on the part of the notary. This practice upholds the notary's duty to act as an impartial witness, reinforcing the trust and reliability of the notarization process.

In contrast, ignoring personal interests in the transaction could lead to ethical dilemmas or mistrust, while consulting a lawyer without disclosing the conflict fails to address the immediate need for transparency. Proceeding with the notarization solely in exchange for compensation raises serious ethical concerns and can undermine the credibility of the notarial act. Addressing conflicts of interest proactively through disclosure and recusal is essential for maintaining the professional integrity required of a notary public.