Can a notary refuse to conduct a notarial act for any reason?

A notary has the authority to refuse to conduct a notarial act if they suspect the act may be illegal or fraudulent. This is rooted in the notary's responsibility to uphold the integrity of the notarization process and ensure that the documents being notarized are legitimate. Notaries serve as impartial witnesses, and if there are any doubts regarding the legality or authenticity of the transaction or the signer’s intentions, they are obligated to decline the request.

This emphasis on ethical duties is critical in preventing the misuse of the notarization process, which could otherwise lead to fraud or other legal issues. The notary must assess each situation carefully, and if there are any red flags, their refusal helps protect both the public and themselves from potential legal consequences.