Not Every Notarization Is Straightforward: Why I Always Pay Attention

Most notarizations go exactly as expected. I show up, verify ID, witness the signature, stamp the document, and we are done. But sometimes, there is more going on beneath the surface.

Every once in a while, I walk into what seems like a normal appointment, and something feels off. A hesitant signer. A hovering relative. A pause that lasts a little too long. That is when my role shifts from routine paperwork to something much more important - protecting someone’s rights.

One of my core responsibilities as a notary is making sure that every signature I witness is voluntary. Not influenced. Not manipulated. Not pressured in any way.

I am trained to recognize subtle red flags that might indicate a signer is not acting freely. These can include:

👀 Nervous, withdrawn, or fearful body language

💬 A signer who is not allowed to speak privately or seems coached

📄 Someone else saying, “Just sign it” or rushing the process

❓ Delayed or unsure answers to basic questions like, “Are you signing this because you want to?”

When I notice something that does not sit right, I do not move forward. I ask questions. I assess the situation carefully. And if I am not confident that the signer is acting of their own free will, I stop the notarization.

Because here is the truth: no document, deadline, or deal is more important than someone’s autonomy.

Here in Washington, notaries are bound by the Notary Public Code of Professional Responsibility. That code gives me not just the authority but the duty to say no if I suspect coercion or manipulation.

Being a notary is not just about stamps and signatures. It is about safeguarding trust, upholding the law, and standing up for people who might need an advocate in that moment.

So if you ever wonder why I take my time or ask more questions than expected, now you know. It is all about protecting the integrity of the document—and more importantly, the person signing it.

✨ GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES

Notarization may be boring, but I’m not!

Serving Pierce, Thurston, and parts of Lewis Counties

Flexible scheduling, online and mobile options, and pet friendly appointments are my specialty!