Under what condition may a notary provide journal information to an attorney or law firm?

A notary is permitted to provide journal information to an attorney or law firm if it is needed during the course of their employment. This means that the attorney must require this information as part of their legal duties, such as for case preparation, litigation, or other professional responsibilities that necessitate access to the notary's records.

This condition respects the legal framework surrounding the confidentiality of notarial acts while still allowing for necessary access to information that can aid in legal matters. The relationship between the notary and the attorney is governed by the needs of the legal profession, and thus, if the attorney can demonstrate that the information is relevant to their work, it can be shared. This standard balances the need for confidentiality with the practical requirements of legal practice.

In contrast, providing journal information based solely on a verbal request or the attorney’s discretion lacks the necessary context related to professional duties and responsibilities. The requirement of promising confidentiality does not override the legal standards that dictate when and how notary information can be shared. Ultimately, the focus remains on the necessity of the information in the scope of the attorney's employment.