Impersonating a notary public without proper authorization is considered what class of misdemeanor?

Impersonating a notary public without proper authorization is classified as a Class A misdemeanor in Illinois. This classification indicates the serious nature of the offense, as it involves misrepresenting oneself in a position of trust and authority where public confidence is paramount. Notaries are entrusted with important duties such as verifying identities and ensuring the authenticity of documents. When someone impersonates a notary, it undermines the integrity of the notarial process and can lead to fraud or legal complications for those who rely on the accuracy of notarized documents.

The severity associated with Class A misdemeanors typically includes potential penalties like hefty fines and possible incarceration, reflecting the state's strong stance on maintaining the reliability and legitimacy of notarial practices. Understanding this classification underscores the importance of ethical behavior and legal compliance in the role of a notary public.