What must a notary do after completing a notarization?

After completing a notarization, a notary is required to record the details in their journal. This practice is essential as it provides a detailed account of the notarization process, including key information such as the date of the notarization, the type of document signed, the names and addresses of the signers, and any other pertinent details. Maintaining a journal is crucial for a notary as it serves as a legal record that can be referenced in case of disputes or questions about the notarization in the future. It also helps protect the notary from liability by demonstrating that they followed the appropriate procedures.

The other options are different in function or unnecessary in the context of what a notary must do following a notarization. For example, a notary does not destroy evidence of the notarization, as retaining a record is foundational to their role. Informing the signers about their rights can be important but is not a mandatory step specifically required after a notarization. Finally, filing the document with the county clerk may be necessary for certain types of documents, but it is not a universal requirement for all notarizations and therefore does not apply in the same way. The correct action that must always be taken after completing a notarization is to ensure proper documentation