Is a Michigan Notary allowed to have an interpreter that is not a party to the notarization interpret for a signer who speaks a different language over the phone? — S.T., Michigan
No, Michigan does not authorize the use of interpreters or translators for notarizations, including interpreters participating over the phone. The Notary and signer must be able to communicate directly with one another without the assistance of a translator.
If the Notary and signer do not speak the same language, the Notary should decline the notarization and recommend that the signer locate a Notary who speaks the signer’s language.
Only Arizona, Colorado and Mississippi permit an interpreter to translate a foreign language for a signer during a notarization. Other states do not permit the use of foreign-language interpreters during notarizations.
Colorado and Mississippi require the interpreter to be present at the notarization.
Arizona’s Notary Public Reference Manual includes the following guidelines: “It is not a requirement that the notary public provide customers with a translator. It may be in their best interest to have a translator who they trust to translate correctly. A translator may need to be present to verbally translate oaths or affirmations or to explain a document to a signer if they are unable to read the document prior to having their signature notarized.”
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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