Which regulation primarily governs notaries in California?

The regulation that primarily governs notaries in California is the California Government Code, specifically Sections 8200-8230. This section outlines the laws and requirements for notary public activities, including the qualifications for becoming a notary, the duties and powers of notaries, the processes for taking acknowledgments, administering oaths, and maintaining records.

This set of codes serves as the foundational legal framework that ensures notaries operate within the boundaries of state law and uphold the integrity of the notarization process. By detailing the responsibilities and protocols that notaries must follow, it helps maintain public trust in notarial acts.

While the Notary Public Act is indeed related and important, it is the specific sections within the California Government Code that provide comprehensive legislative authority over notaries. The Family Code and regulations from the Secretary of State do not directly address the operational guidelines and legal requirements unique to notaries.