What is a notary journal?

A notary journal serves as an official record of each notarization performed by a notary public. It is essential for maintaining a detailed account of all notarial acts, including the date and time of the act, the type of document being notarized, the names and signatures of the individuals involved, and any witnesses present. This record-keeping is critical for ensuring accountability and for providing evidence of the notary's actions if ever questioned or needed in legal scenarios.

The importance of a notary journal stems from its role in safeguarding against fraud and ensuring the integrity of the notarization process. It provides a reliable reference that notaries can use to confirm their activities, which is especially important in disputes regarding the authenticity of documents.

The other choices do not accurately describe the purpose of a notary journal. Personal notes, daily activities, or a ledger for fees do not reflect the official function and legal significance of the notary journal in documenting notarizations.