My father is going to apply for a handicap placard. Can I notarize his paperwork? — C.O., Pennsylvania
Updated 1-16-18. Pennsylvania prohibits notarizing for a spouse, but does not address the issue of notarizing for parents. While notarizing for a parent is not prohibited, as suggested in Article II-B-5 of The Notary Public Code Of Professional Responsibility the NNA recommends that you not notarize for a parent, sibling or other family members related by heredity or marriage because the financial affairs of family members are often intertwined. Such a notarization could be considered a conflict of interest. Thus, it is always the safest practice to avoid even the appearance of a financial or beneficial interest and not notarize documents for immediate family. 57 Pa.C.S. 304 states a Notary Public may not notarize in any transaction in which he or she or the Notary's spouse has a financial interest.
Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. – The Editors
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