What is the primary reason for not notarizing a document for close relatives?

The primary reason for not notarizing a document for close relatives is to avoid potential conflicts of interest. Notaries are expected to remain impartial and unbiased when performing their duties. By notarizing documents for close relatives, a notary could inadvertently put themselves in a position where their personal feelings or relationships compromise their objectivity. This could lead to questions about the authenticity of the notarization and the legitimacy of the document itself, as the notary's personal connection may influence their actions.

While remaining unbiased in all transactions is closely related, the specific concern when it comes to close relatives focuses on the potential for a conflict of interest that might arise due to their personal relationship. Compliance with state regulations and ensuring legitimacy of documents are also important aspects of a notary's responsibilities, but the core issue in this scenario is the potential conflict of interest that can arise in transactions involving family members.