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Misconduct/Fees

A notary who negligently performs a notarial act that results in harm to a client may be liable for:

A

Nothing — the surety bond covers all damages

B

Only the cost of redoing the notarial act

C

Both civil penalties and personal damages

D

Up to $750 in civil penalties only

Official source: 2026 California Notary Public Handbook (2026)

Reference: Misconduct/Fees

Source checked September 7, 2026

✓

Correct Answer

C. Both civil penalties and personal damages

Detailed Explanation

A negligent notary faces both civil penalties (up to $750) and personal liability for actual damages. The surety bond compensates the harmed party first, but the notary remains personally liable and the surety may seek reimbursement.

Misconduct/Fees Question #400
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