A misdemeanor, which for practicing law without a license carries a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to one year in county jail
A felony if the documents involve real property
There is no criminal penalty — the notary's commission may only be revoked
An infraction with a fine up to $500
Official source: 2026 California Notary Public Handbook (2026)
Reference: Government Code section 8227.3; Business and Professions Code section 6126
Source checked September 7, 2026
Correct Answer
A. A misdemeanor, which for practicing law without a license carries a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to one year in county jail
Detailed Explanation
Unauthorized practice of law as a misdemeanor. Unauthorized practice of law in California is a misdemeanor under Business and Professions Code section 6126, punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to one year in county jail. For a notary, this conduct is also grounds for denial, revocation, or suspension of the commission. Note: the felony under Government Code section 8227.3 applies to acting as a notary without a commission on real property documents — not to unauthorized practice of law.
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