A notary is asked to notarize a document for a principal who appears confused about the document and seems pressured by another person in the room. Under the rule on notarization requirements, what is the most appropriate action for the notary?
Notarization requires the principal to be competent and signing voluntarily, not just presenting identification.
The source rule states that a notary may refuse if not satisfied that the principal is competent, has capacity, or that the signature is knowing and voluntary. In this situation, the principal appears confused and pressured, directly raising both competence/capacity and voluntariness concerns.
Notaries must ensure the principal is competent and signing voluntarily, regardless of third-party confirmation.
Notarization requires ensuring the principal's competence and voluntary consent, not just witnessing the signature.
Explanation
Whenever a notary is not satisfied that the principal is competent, has capacity, or is signing knowingly and voluntarily, the notary may refuse to notarize.
Memory Aid
C-KV: If Competence or Capacity is doubtful, or the signature is not Knowing and Voluntary, the notary can refuse.