If asked to witness a signature but not perform the notarial act, what should you do?

Study for the Maryland Notary Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Notaries operate within a defined scope of authority. If someone asks you to witness a signature but not to perform a notarization, the proper approach is to explain your role and stay within those limits. You should clarify that you are there to perform notarial acts, not merely to witness signatures outside the notarization process, and you should not perform any duty beyond what you’re authorized to do. If the document will be notarized, you can proceed with the appropriate notarial act; if not, you should avoid acting as a notary beyond that authorized role. This helps maintain the integrity of the process and prevents the impression that you are endorsing or validating the document. Volunteering extra services, attempting to notarize without proper authorization, or simply leaving without guidance don’t provide the appropriate professional boundary or support.