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Non-English Advertising
- May I use the term “Notario Publico” on my business sign and cards?
- Can I use the term “notario publico” when notarizing documents for my Spanish-speaking customers or documents written in Spanish? What if my client insists I use the term?
- Can I advertise my notary services in a foreign language?
- What if my client insists I use the term “notario publico”?
- What is the difference between a “U.S. Notary Public” and a “Notario Publico” from Mexico?
May I use the term “Notario Publico” on my business sign and cards?
No. In most states, notary laws prohibit notaries public from using the term “Notario Publico” or any equivalent non-English term, in any business card, advertisement, notice or sign. In Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries, a Notario Publico is a trained attorney with special expertise. A business card could be categorized as “written communication” if the business cards are given out.
Can I use the term “notario publico” when notarizing documents for my Spanish-speaking customers or documents written in Spanish? What if my client insists I use the term?
Absolutely not! The words “Notary Public” may not be translated into any equivalent non-English term because such translation may carry a different meaning that implies powers that are not granted by U.S. notary laws. A notary public may not mislead the public into believing that he or she has duties, rights, powers, or privileges that are not granted by notary laws.
Can I advertise my notary services in a foreign language?
No. In most states, there are statutory restrictions that apply when advertising notary services: 1) a notary public may not use the phrase “Notario Publico”; and 2) the advertisement must include the following words: "I AM NOT AN ATTORNEY LICENSED TO PRACTICE LAW IN THIS STATE, AND I MAY NOT GIVE LEGAL ADVICE OR ACCEPT FEES FOR LEGAL ADVICE."
What if my client insists I use the term “notario publico”?
Tell your client that a notary public is prohibited from translating the term “Notary Public” into “Notario Publico” for any reason under any circumstances. Such a violation may cause you to lose your notary commission and subject you to civil and criminal liability. Tell the signer that a “notario publico” in Latin countries is an attorney, which is not the same as a notary public in the United States.
What is the difference between a “U.S. Notary Public” and a “Notario Publico” from Mexico?
In Mexico, a notario publico: 1) performs the duties of an attorney; 2) serves as a public recorder; 3) is an examiner of documents such as wills; 4) is very instrumental in real estate transactions; 5) records buy-sell contracts and agreements; and 6) conducts title searches. In the United States, however, just about anyone who is 18 years of age, a legal resident of the state, and who has not been convicted of a felony can qualify for appointment to hold the office of notary public.
Legal disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. We do not claim to be attorneys and we do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided. You should always seek the advice of a licensed attorney for any legal matters. It is your responsibility to know the appropriate notary laws governing your state. In no event shall the American Association of Notaries, its employees, or contractors be liable to you for any claims, penalties, losses, damages, or expenses, howsoever arising, including, and without limitation, direct or indirect loss, or consequential loss, out of or in connection with the use of the information contained on any of the American Association of Notaries website pages. Notaries are advised to seek the advice of their state’s notary authorities or attorneys if they have legal questions.