A certified copy is a copy of a document that a notary certifies to be a true, correct, and complete copy of the original. In California, a notary public may only certify copies of:
1. Powers of attorney
2. Their own sequential journal entries (upon a lawful written request)
California notaries are strictly prohibited from certifying copies of vital records (birth, death, marriage, or divorce certificates) or any other government-issued document that is publicly recordable. Those copies must be obtained directly from the issuing agency (e.g., the County Recorder or California Department of Public Health).
Exam Tip: This is a very common exam trap. A client asking you to certify a copy of their birth certificate, marriage certificate, or court judgment must be declined. Direct them to the appropriate government agency. The maximum fee for a certified copy of a power of attorney is $15.
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