Is it acceptable for a notary to acknowledge a person who does not understand English without providing a translation?

A notary's primary responsibility is to ensure that all parties involved in a notarization clearly understand what they are signing. If a person does not understand English, providing a translation becomes essential to ensure the individual comprehends the contents of the document. This is crucial not just for the integrity of the notarization but also for safeguarding the interests of the signer. Without understanding the document, the signer could be agreeing to something they do not fully grasp, thereby undermining consent and potentially leading to disputes in the future.

This requirement is also tied to broader principles of communication and transparency in the notarization process. It's important that the notary confirms that the signer has a full understanding, thus protecting both the individual and the integrity of notarized documents. For these reasons, a translation is indeed required when dealing with a person who does not understand English.