Should Arkansas notaries maintain a record of their notarial acts?

Maintaining a record of notarial acts is indeed required by law for Arkansas notaries. This requirement serves several important purposes. Keeping a record helps to create a reliable account of the transactions that have taken place, which can be crucial in the event of disputes or challenges regarding the authenticity of a signature or the notarization itself. Furthermore, it aids in accountability and transparency, ensuring that notaries conduct their duties in accordance with established legal standards.

The law specifies that notaries in Arkansas must maintain a journal that includes details of each act performed, ensuring that these records are complete and easily accessible for any future reference or investigation that may be necessary. This regulatory framework protects both the notary and the public by establishing a clear and documented history of all notarial transactions.