What is the penalty for a notary who fails to keep a proper journal?

When a notary fails to keep a proper journal, they may face severe repercussions, including disciplinary action that can lead to the revocation of their notary commission. Maintaining a journal is a critical responsibility for notaries as it serves as an official record of their transactions. It helps ensure accountability and transparency in their activities, providing evidence of services rendered and protecting against potential fraud or disputes.

If a notary neglects this duty, it not only undermines the integrity of the notarial process but also creates a liability risk, which regulatory bodies take seriously. Revocation of a commission is a direct consequence aimed at enforcing compliance with legal standards and maintaining the trust of the public in notarial services. Other penalties or corrective measures, such as fines or warnings, might be applicable in different contexts, but the significant consequence of losing one's commission underscores the importance of diligent record-keeping in notarial practice.