What is a recommended practice regarding records after a notarial act?

• A. Do not keep any records
• B. Keep only a wallet-sized copy of the certificate
• C. Maintain a journal (not required)
• D. Archive the document with the county clerk

Answer: (C)

Maintaining a journal of each notarial act is the recommended practice because it creates a reliable, contemporaneous record of essential details. A notary journal captures who appeared, what type of act was performed, when and where it happened, what identification was used, and any fees or notes about the act. This record provides a clear trail that supports accountability and can be crucial if the notarization is ever questioned or challenged. While Georgia law may not mandate journaling in every situation, this practice offers the strongest protection and proof of compliance. Other options fail to provide that level of detail and traceability: not keeping records leaves no evidence of what occurred; a wallet-sized copy omits the necessary information for verification; and archiving with the county clerk is not a standard requirement for routine notarial acts in Georgia.