In Michigan, notary fraud can result in severe penalties, including criminal charges that may lead to fines and imprisonment. A notary found guilty of fraud may face a misdemeanor charge, with penalties of up to 93 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500. Additionally, the notary's commission may be revoked, and they could be liable for civil damages. It's important for notaries to adhere strictly to ethical guidelines to avoid such consequences.
Where do I report a suspicion of Notary Fraud in AZ
Having a notary at a transaction guarantees that each person is who they claim to be which cuts down on fraud and identity theft.
I am unsure what an "unlicensed" notary is. If a notary's commission has expired, that person is no longer a notary and cannot legally notarize documents. If a notary with an expired-commission notarizes a document, the expired-commission notary can face fines or jail-time. The legal status of the improperly notarized document varies from state to state. Asking an expired notary to work, via email or otherwise, is not a crime and does not necessarily constitute an attempt at fraud. If an uncommissioned notary is soliciting work, that person is committing fraud.
Jail
You must pay a fine.
Probably not. The notary in most American states is licensed by the secretary of state to perform notarial duties according to local statutes and regulations and it makes no difference who the "client" is. The notary must carry out the procedures as required by law. On the other hand, if the notary is "ordered" to violate the regulations and does so to keep his or her job, then it may not be fraud, but it is certainly a crime that needs to be dealt with appropriately. A notary is just assuring the person signing the document is the one signing the document. It does not assure anything about the content of the document...it can be "I swear I am not John Smith"...signed by John Smith and notarized by a notary assuring that it is indeed John Smith signing. So what could be the fraud the notary would commit?
....michigans man?
Grand Theft AutoThe penalty is usually about 5 years in Prison.
No. In fact, alteration of a notary stamp is most likely considered fraud in most jurisidctions and will probably subject the perpetrator to criminal penalties.
depends on how bad the person lied
It is fraud and stealing so that means prison time.
Notarizing a forged signature is a serious offense that can lead to criminal charges, including fraud or forgery, which may result in fines and imprisonment. Additionally, the notary may face civil penalties, including the suspension or revocation of their notary commission. The specific penalties can vary by jurisdiction, so it is important for notaries to adhere strictly to their duties and verify signatures appropriately.