What should a notary do if asked to notarize a document from a deceased person?

In this scenario, the notary's role is to verify the identity of the signer and ensure that they are willing and able to sign the document voluntarily. However, if the person whose signature is required is deceased, the notary cannot proceed with the notarization. Notarizing a document for a deceased person lacks the essential element of verifying the signer's identity, which is a fundamental responsibility of a notary.

Notarizing a document posthumously would not only violate the rules governing notarial acts but could also lead to legal challenges or questions about the authenticity of the document. Therefore, the appropriate course of action for a notary is to refuse to notarize documents from deceased individuals, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards in their notarial duties. This helps maintain the integrity of the notarization process and protects all parties involved.