A notary's liability for a notarization depends on the state's statute of limitations and the specific nature of the claim (e.g., negligence vs. fraud). While the notarization seal and the document itself typically remain valid indefinitely, the notary's personal and financial liability is subject to specific legal timeframes. OneNotary +4 Liability Duration and Statute of Limitations The "liability" of a notary generally falls into three categories: Statutes of Limitation : Most states have a specific period within which a lawsuit may be filed against a notary, typically ranging from 3 to 10 years from the date of the act or the discovery of the error. Bond Liability : In states like Michigan, notaries must carry a $10,000 surety bond that covers the duration of their 6 to 7-year commission . If a claim is made, the bond provides a layer of public protection, but the notary may still be personally liable for amou...
