Can a notary public perform a notarization if they have a financial interest in the document?

A notary public is expected to maintain impartiality and avoid conflicts of interest in their role. This principle is crucial for ensuring the integrity of the notarization process. When a notary has a financial interest in the document being notarized, it creates a significant conflict that could undermine the trust in notarial acts. The notary's ability to act as an unbiased witness is compromised, which can lead to questions about the authenticity and reliability of the notarization.

Because of this, notaries are prohibited from performing notarizations in which they have any financial or beneficial interest. The rules are designed to safeguard the interests of all parties involved and to uphold the public's trust in the notarial system. This ensures that the notary's duty to verify identities, witness signatures, and ensure that the document is executed voluntarily is performed without any self-serving motives or influences.