Can you continue to use the same notary journal after getting a new commission?

Using the same notary journal after obtaining a new commission is permissible as long as the journal meets the requirements set forth by Illinois notary law. This means that the journal must continue to be maintained in accordance with the regulations governing notarial acts, including proper documentation of all required entries and ensuring the journal is secure and private.

In Illinois, each notary is required to keep a journal of their notarial acts, and this journal is a critical tool for maintaining notary integrity and accountability. When a notary receives a new commission, it does not invalidate their previous entries; however, the notary must ensure that their practice aligns with the current legal standards and requirements to avoid any issues.

Maintaining the same journal can help notaries keep a continuous record of their activities, which is beneficial both for personal tracking and for any potential audits or legal inquiries. It's essential that the format and content align with current laws since failure to comply with these stipulations can have legal implications for the notary.