Disgusting – Nobody wanted the Notary Job
I write this with a combination of sadness and rage. First, let me clear up the use of the word disgusting. That refers to the “so called” “Notaries” who flat out refused the assignment that will be the topic of this entry. I hope some of them will read this blog entry and, perhaps, change their ways.
The call was from a distant location, one that would require double my local fee. Initially, prior to learning the details, I informed the caller about 123notary and Notary Rotary. I suggested they search using their zip code to find a closer agent who could process their job more efficiently and at a lower fee. About an hour later they call back to report that none of the “Notaries” they contacted would accept the assignment. Intrigued, I asked why.
The job entailed 4 one page documents, and a 12 page document. All were to be notarized. So far, routine. However the affiant was both blind and partially disabled. The affiant had already had the documents read aloud, and was totally able to understand the contents. They related to investments. Not wanting to work for someone who has perfect ID and is rational (actually highly intelligent) is, IMHO a notary sin. The MINOR limitations could be accommodated and the notarizations could proceed quite legally.
I established some “ground rules” to protect the affiant. While I was in route to the location the documents were to be read aloud – slowly. Every word. I was informed he could sign if the arm was supported – the affiant was able to use his hand to sign. Each document contained a statement by the “reader” as to reading the complete text aloud. I required that this take place prior to my arrival, and again in my presence. That process added an hour, of course at no additional charge. The appointment was confirmed and I began the lengthy journey.
I met a person who awed me. Not being the least bit negative as to physical condition. Cheerful, bright and witty were the initial impressions. Only later did I learn the depth of intelligence. My client was an investing genius. What Stephen Hawking is to science, my client was to investing. I felt an inner glow when my client told me that my fee for travel was fair; and it was understood that the extra time the procedure took was not part of the fee. How kind it was to hear that spoken.
I was told that the documents were already completely understood; and that my insistence at being present for an additional reading was both appreciated and unnecessary. I’m passably intelligent, but I know enough to appreciate the vastly superior intellect before me. With the formalities completed, double and triple checked; we chatted a few minutes. We discussed the notary function, and I was able to cover some of the regulations and procedures mandated by NY State law. The conversation turned to investing and market trends related to the upcoming (2016) elections. I learned a lot.
To the heartless, self centered, poor excuse for a “Notary” who dismissed this assignment; I say “shame on you”. Not only did you miss an EASY job, but you also missed some very useful investing advice that is sure to yield me profits far greater than a mobile notary fee. Back to that fee. I did consider charging my local rate. But, that would be treating this client “differently”, and bringing up the subject might be viewed a pity; something neither needed nor appropriate.
Some might consider my client “handicapped” or think (to themselves) “there but for the grace of God go I”. I prefer to think it’s a routine assignment, costly due to distance, lengthy because we are all different; and important because we are all human.
You might also like:
The joy of saying no
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=10189
Protecting yourself with a contract
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=2593
Minimum wage for notaries
http://blog.123notary.com/?s=minimum+wage
Good for you!
Those other “Notaries” should be ashamed of themselves.
Comment by Stacey Ward — June 12, 2016 @ 9:53 pm
Thank you for this great story.
Comment by Karla Hand — June 14, 2016 @ 3:13 am
What an awesome service you provided and it came back to you 100X. I, too, have taken many of these types of notary calls and have been blessed beyond words. I have talked to many, many notaries and like you said, they always turn them down due to the time factor. I take all and every notary assignment and always come out the winner!!! Good for you!
Comment by Carol — June 15, 2016 @ 3:39 pm
I think before judgment is passed on those notaries who refused the signing, just remember that they had a right to refuse the signing if they were not confidant with notarizing a document for someone with a sight impairment, even if someone else was reading the information.
I would rather someone decline the assignment rather than conduct a signing they he/she was not comfortable doing, just to make a buck. Their decision is not disgusting. Maybe overly cautious, but certainly not disgusting or shameful.
Comment by Michelle — June 19, 2016 @ 2:21 am
Michelle, while I respect your opinion and the logic behind it – there are the issues of legality and what is morally right. If someone is a notary professional they should know the laws governing them. In most jurisdictions it is probably illegal to refuse service; certainly the case in NY. I know, the affiant did not go to the notary in a “place of public accommodation” thus, the notary is declining to “travel to them”. So they probably did nothing illegal. “not confident” – I fail to understand that part – there is very little different in the described job, compared to all others. “just to make a buck” – is what our profession is all about, unless you do it as a hobby. Let’s face the real likely cause. They did not want to invest the extra time. Replies 1 & 3 did agree with my overall “disgusting” opinion. It’s great that we are allowed individual opinions. Yours is just as important as mine. But in the current “voting” – it’s 3 to one. Stacey and Carol side with me (Stacey on my opinion, Carol on my actions). Carol added “due to the time factor”. Thus, I conclude the ones that declined are most likely trying to optimize their “making a buck”.
Comment by Kenneth Edelstein — June 22, 2016 @ 9:49 pm
I do understand what Michelle is stating Kenneth and I do feel the notary may do better by ensuring that she/he is aware of the laws in the state regarding refusing notarizations.
Michelle actually doesn’t have to agree just because you are stating that others are agreeing (3 to one, really? Aren’t we professionals?) . We all have our own opinion just as you and feel that the presentation of your post was a bit harsh to call this notary or the actions disgusting.
Yes, we are all blessed to be in a country where we can state our opinions, with no responsibility in the wording or judgements that are being placed.
Comment by Lisa — July 5, 2016 @ 9:34 pm
Ok before you get in the notaries that refused the assignment. The docs were read out loud BEFORE you got there? Are you mad? You are supposed to attest and swear to things that you can’t because EVERYTHING is supposed to be done in your presence. Docs could have been read but you could also be provided with other pieces of paper which are different and have NOT been read as a way to scam your client. YOU would have been found liable. This job was easily doable but you screwed it up. Sorry
Comment by Stan Cohen — August 5, 2017 @ 3:13 pm