What should a notary do if they make a mistake on a notarial record?

When a notary makes a mistake on a notarial record, the appropriate action is to correct the error promptly and document that correction in the journal entry. This practice is crucial to maintaining transparency and integrity in notarial acts. By clearly noting the correction, the notary ensures that there is a complete and accurate record of the transaction and the actions taken, which can protect both the notary and the signers involved.

Maintaining a detailed journal that includes corrections helps to establish a clear and trustworthy history of notarial acts, which is critical for accountability. Furthermore, proper documentation can be vital in case of an audit or legal scrutiny regarding the notarial services provided.

When considering the other options: deleting an incorrect entry undermines the authenticity of the record and can lead to confusion or questions about the notarial act; ignoring the mistake could result in detrimental consequences for the notary and may affect the legality of the document involved; and referring the issue to the Secretary of State may not be necessary for simple errors that the notary can promptly correct themselves. Therefore, the best course of action is to address the issue directly through prompt correction and clear documentation.