What might happen if a notary performs RON illegally?

If a notary performs Remote Online Notary (RON) services illegally, the potential consequences can be quite severe, including fines and criminal charges. Engaging in unauthorized notarial acts undermines the integrity of the notary profession and the legal system as a whole. Each state has specific laws and regulations governing notarial acts, especially for online notarization, and violations can lead to serious legal repercussions.

Fines can vary significantly based on the jurisdiction and the nature of the offense. In some cases, performing notarial acts without the appropriate authorization may be classified as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the severity of the infraction and state-specific laws. Criminal charges may also lead to a permanent record that could impact future employment opportunities and professional licenses.

This framework serves to ensure that individuals are held accountable for their actions, thereby maintaining the trust and reliability that is crucial in notarial acts. Those who engage in improper notarial actions jeopardize not only their own legal standing but also the validity of the documents they improperly notarize.