Can I notarize documents for family members and/or non-blood relatives when I am not involved in the transaction and will not benefit? Specifically, my brother-in-law asked me to notarize his health care and financial power of attorney. — C.B., Ohio
Ohio law does not prohibit a Notary from notarizing for family members, provided the Notary does not have a financial or beneficial interest in the document (ORC 147.141). That said, documents involving family members may involve a financial or other beneficial interest that may not be apparent at the time. In addition, notarizing for family members may test the Notary’s ability to act impartially. For these reasons, the NNA recommends that Notaries disqualify themselves from notarizing for family members even if the law technically allows it.
More information on notarization rules for family members in other states can be found here: A guide to notarizing for family members
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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