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Misconduct, Fines & PenaltiesCalifornia Notary Examination • 2026 Edition

A notary public willfully completes and executes a certificate of acknowledgment containing statements known to be false regarding the personal appearance of a party signing a deed. What civil penalty may be imposed by the Secretary of State or a public prosecutor for this offense?

A$10,000Correct Answer
B$2,500
C$750
D$1,500
Official 2026 Statutory Legal Analysis

Under Civil Code section 1189(a)(4), a notary public who willfully states as true any material fact known to be false in a certificate of acknowledgment is subject to a civil penalty not exceeding $10,000 imposed in an administrative proceeding or civil court action.

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