I’ve been wrestling with this topic for weeks. This post will veer a bit from my usual upbeat tone, but I think it’s necessary.

When we take the notary oath of office, we make a solemn pledge to uphold the duties of our role with honesty and integrity. This includes a commitment to support both the U.S. Constitution and the constitution of the state in which we are commissioned. It’s not just a formality, it’s a serious promise.

In May, a notary public in Pennsylvania was arrested for forging over 20 documents to steal deeds to more than 20 properties in a single city. The story hit Facebook and spread quickly, but to my surprise, it barely sparked any conversation. I’ve seen posts about where to sign a document get 110 comments, yet this one got maybe 5 or 6.

Why? Why wasn’t there more outrage? Why wasn’t our community loudly condemning this clear and deliberate violation of our oath?

Frequently  I’m asked what we can do to convince legislators to raise the $5.00 cap on notary fees in Pennsylvania. But how do we ask for that kind of trust and support when stories like this surface? Would a lawmaker be willing to consider fee increases after seeing such a betrayal of public trust?

I love what I do, both as a notary and as an apostille agent. I get to help people and earn a good living doing meaningful work. I love teaching others in this field, passing on knowledge while building a career I’m proud of. But never—never—would I break that oath. Never would I risk my integrity or act dishonestly.

Although fraud just hit Pennsylvania, it is appearing, escalating even, everywhere.  And so I’d like to offer a suggestion. Study your state’s laws and handbook. Know what you can do, and what you can’t do as a notary public in your state. That’s part of integrity. And, your journal is your best friend. Make a note of who’s who and what’s what during your appointments. Your journal serves as your memory.  And Remember, this role demands more than just stamping papers. It demands integrity and character. Let’s not forget that.