What crime is committed by someone who knowingly conceals or destroys a notary's seal?

The act of knowingly concealing or destroying a notary's seal is classified as a third-degree felony because it has serious implications for the integrity of notarizations and the legal documents involved. Notaries play a critical role in verifying identities and ensuring the authenticity of signatures on various forms, which helps to prevent fraud and maintain trust in the legal process. When someone interferes with a notary’s seal, it undermines this process, potentially leading to significant legal consequences.

In many jurisdictions, including Guam, the law takes such actions very seriously, hence classifying it as a felony rather than a misdemeanor. A felony charge suggests a greater degree of harm caused or potential for harm, which aligns with the disruptions that might arise from tampering with notary seals. The severity of the offense reflects the importance of maintaining the security and integrity of notarial acts in a legal context.