What happens to a notary’s journal upon their death?

When a notary passes away, the notary's journal, which contains important records of notarial acts, is required by law to be surrendered to the county clerk or the Secretary of State. This procedure ensures that all notarial records are securely maintained and can be accessed if necessary for legal or official purposes. Proper handling of the journal after a notary's death is vital to protect the integrity of the notarial system and to maintain public trust.

Surrendering the journal to the appropriate authority allows for proper oversight and ensures that the notary’s records are preserved in accordance with state regulations. This measure also prevents unauthorized access or misuse of sensitive information contained in the journal. It is a crucial aspect of notarial practice, reflecting the responsibilities notaries have in maintaining accurate and trustworthy records.