What action may the Illinois Secretary of State take if a violation is believed to have occurred?

The Illinois Secretary of State has the authority to conduct an investigation when there is a belief that a violation of notary laws has occurred. This investigative process is essential to gather all relevant facts and assess whether any wrongdoing took place. By investigating, the Secretary of State can ensure that appropriate measures are taken based on the findings. This thorough approach helps maintain the integrity of the notary public office and protects the public from potential misconduct.

Other actions mentioned, such as conducting a full criminal investigation or immediately revoking a notary's commission, are not typical procedures for the Secretary of State in response to a suspected violation. Moreover, notifying the notary without further investigation would bypass the necessary steps to confirm whether a violation indeed took place. Thus, the correct process involves investigating the possible violation before any further action is taken.