If the signer appears confused or under duress, what should the notary do?

When a signer appears confused or seems to be under duress, the appropriate response for a notary is to ensure that the signer is acting voluntarily and to refrain from proceeding with the notarization if there are any doubts about their consent. This is essential because a key aspect of notarization is the requirement that the signer understands the document they are signing and is doing so free of pressure or coercion.

If a signer is confused, they may not fully comprehend what they are signing, which could lead to issues regarding the legitimacy of the notarization. Similarly, if the signer is under duress, it implies they may be signing against their will, which violates the fundamental principles of notarization. In both cases, failure to ensure the signer’s voluntary and informed consent could result in legal complications and undermine the integrity of the notarial act.

The notary must prioritize the signer’s comprehension and willingness, making option C the most appropriate course of action in these circumstances. Taking steps to guarantee that the signer is making an informed, voluntary choice is crucial for upholding the ethical standards of notarial practice.