What can happen if a notary fails to administer the oath correctly?

If a notary fails to administer the oath correctly, the action may be deemed invalid and penalties imposed. Properly administering an oath is a crucial part of a notary's duties, as it ensures that the signer is affirming the truthfulness of the statements they are making. If the oath is not administered correctly, it can compromise the integrity of the entire notarization process. Consequently, this can lead to the document being questioned or deemed unenforceable in legal terms.

Additionally, notaries are held to professional standards, and failing to uphold these standards can result in disciplinary action, which may include fines, suspension, or revocation of their notary commission. Such penalties highlight the importance of the notary's role in confirming the identity and the willingness of the signer, as well as ensuring that the proper legal processes are followed.