Pennsylvania Notary Public Exam — All Questions
2 questions
Prohibited
Under RULONA, may a Pennsylvania notary notarize a document in which the notary's spouse is a party?
- a.Yes, spouses are fine
- b.No—a disqualifying interest exists if the notary or the notary's spouse is a party or has a direct beneficial interest✓
- c.Yes, if the fee is waived
- d.Only for acknowledgments
RULONA disqualifies a notary from acting if the notary OR the notary's spouse is a party to or has a direct beneficial interest in the transaction. This bright-line rule is broader than some states' and is frequently tested. The notary must decline.
Prohibited
A Pennsylvania notary who is not an attorney advises a client on which legal form to use. This is:
- a.A required service
- b.Permitted for a fee
- c.The unauthorized practice of law and prohibited✓
- d.Only allowed for RON
Advising which legal document or act to use is the unauthorized practice of law for a non-attorney notary. It can lead to discipline and liability. The notary may complete the notarial certificate but must not give legal advice.