Could not find how to post on the California forum... I am a Notary in California and got a DUI. Does anybody know if I have to notify S.O.S.? Will my commission be revoked? Could not find an answer to this in the Handbook; they only talk about trying to be commissioned for the first time with a DUI on your record... Thanx.
Has there been a conviction yet? I think that's one of the key elements
Maybe this link will help...
https://www.sos.ca.gov/business/notary/forms/notary-guidelines-2001.pdf
As this documents states, it's a matter of character and if I'm reading it correctly, the SOS is responsible for maintaining that standard - an opening paragraph states "To ensure the integrity of notaries public, the Secretary of State may refuse to appoint any person as a notary public or may revoke or suspend the commission of any notary public for
failure to meet the minimum qualification standards or violation of notary public law." (Bold added by me for emphasis)
Do you have to report it? I don't know - I'd guess if you don't the SOS certainly doesn't have the personnel avaialble to monitor court dockets for notary names, but I'm sure it will show up on your renewal background check.
yes, was arrested, jailed, it will be on my record for 10 years. ...so I just wait until my renewal and see what happens...? Are you from Florida, Linda? I was hoping to get a response from someone in California since the laws are all different; and California happens to have some of the strictest DUI laws in the nation...
Even though Linda is in Florida, she provided you with information directly from the Secretary of State in California. Linda is always quite helpful and knowledgeable. Perhaps you should call the Secretary of State, Notary Public Division and ask them the question directly. Do not rely on message forums for the definitive answer.
When you were arrested, did you tell them you are a notary?
Thank you Joan..and I agree with you...
To the OP: I was just trying to help the you find info - this is straight from the handbook. Since you ARE commissioned and there IS a minimum standard, and there has been a conviction AND a jail term - I think you've answered your own question..
I, personally, think you have a duty to report it to the SOS and let the chips fall where they may. But that's just my opinion - as a notary you're held to a standard of conduct and it's incumbent upon you to maintain that standard or take your lumps for not doing so.
Good Luck.
