No crime if the notary acted in good faith
A willful violation subject to up to $1,500 civil penalty and possible commission revocation
A misdemeanor only
Negligent misconduct subject to $750 penalty
Official source: 2026 California Notary Public Handbook (2026)
Reference: Civil Code section 1189(a)(4)
Source checked September 7, 2026
Correct Answer
B. A willful violation subject to up to $1,500 civil penalty and possible commission revocation
Detailed Explanation
A false statement in a notarial certificate is grounds for discipline and possible criminal liability. If the false statement is in a certificate of acknowledgment, Civil Code section 1189(a)(4) specifically authorizes a civil penalty of up to $10,000. This item should be read as a general disciplinary-risk question rather than the narrower acknowledgment penalty.
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