How long must a tangible notary journal be retained after the final notarial act?

The requirement to retain a tangible notary journal for a period of seven years after the final notarial act is grounded in the need for accountability and record-keeping. This timeframe allows for sufficient access to notarial records for various legal purposes, including verifying the authenticity of notarized documents or resolving disputes that may arise years after the notarial act has been performed.

Keeping the journal for seven years strikes a balance between ensuring that important notarial records are available for legal scrutiny while also considering the practical aspects of record retention. This period aligns with various statutes and practices in many jurisdictions, reflecting a standard approach to documentation in notarial services.

Therefore, the selected answer underscores the essential role of a notary public in maintaining accurate records over a significant period, which is vital for both public trust and legal requirements.