Why should a notary not advise which type of notarial certificate to use?

A notary should refrain from advising which type of notarial certificate to use because that action constitutes the unauthorized practice of law. Notaries are not attorneys and do not possess the legal training required to interpret the implications of different types of certificates in various contexts. The selection of a notarial certificate can significantly impact the legal effect of the notarized document, and advising on this matter can lead to legal consequences for both the notary and the signer.

By avoiding this type of advice, notaries ensure they remain within their scope of authority, maintaining the integrity of the notarial process and upholding the principle that legal matters should be handled by qualified legal professionals. This approach helps prevent any misleading information from being provided, ensuring that individuals seeking notarization understand that they should consult a lawyer if they have questions regarding legal document requirements or implications.