What may happen if a notary does not keep records of their notarial acts?

Maintaining records of notarial acts is crucial for notaries, as these records serve as the official documentation of their duties and reinforce the integrity of the notarial process. If a notary fails to keep these records, one significant consequence is the potential loss of their commission. This is because proper record-keeping is often mandated by state law, including in Arkansas, and not adhering to these regulations can be viewed as a serious breach of the responsibilities associated with being a notary. Consequently, this non-compliance can lead to the revocation of their commission, rendering them unable to perform notarial services legally.

While there may be other repercussions, such as fines or legal scrutiny, the primary and direct consequence specific to failing to keep proper records is the jeopardization of their standing as a commissioned notary. This underscores the importance of diligent record-keeping as a fundamental aspect of a notary's duties.