When should a notary NOT affix their seal and signature?

A notary should refrain from affixing their seal and signature to a blank notarial certificate because doing so can lead to potential misuse or fraud. A notarial certificate serves the purpose of authenticating the notarization of a specific document or signature. If the certificate is left blank, it creates the opportunity for someone to fill it in later with any information they desire, which can compromise the integrity of the notarization process.

Ensuring that a notarial certificate is fully completed before the notary applies their seal and signature is key to maintaining the validity of the notarization. This practice protects all parties involved and upholds the standards for notarial conduct, which mandate that notaries must only certify documents that they have thoroughly reviewed and verified. This involves confirming that the signatures of the relevant parties were executed in the presence of the notary and that the notarial act is appropriately documented without the possibility of alteration or fraud.