Key Takeaways
- Cannot use false or misleading advertising
- Cannot claim duties, rights, or privileges not authorized
- Non-attorney notaries must include specific disclosure
- Cannot imply you can provide legal services
- Must accurately represent your qualifications
Last updated: January 2026
Advertising and Representation Misconduct
Montana law regulates how notaries may advertise and represent their services to protect the public from misunderstanding.
Prohibited Advertising
A notary may NOT use advertising or representations that:
| Prohibition | Example |
|---|---|
| Are false | Claiming certifications you don't have |
| Are misleading | Implying legal expertise |
| Claim unauthorized duties | "Document preparation services" |
| Claim unauthorized rights | "Immigration assistance" |
| Claim unauthorized privileges | "Notary signing agent certified by state" |
Required Disclosure for Non-Attorneys
If you are NOT a licensed attorney, you must display the following statement in your advertising:
"I am not an attorney licensed to practice law in this state. I am not allowed to draft legal records, give advice on legal matters, including immigration, or charge a fee for those activities."
Where to Display
- Business cards (recommended)
- Advertisements
- Website
- Signage
- Any marketing materials
Alternative Statement
The Secretary of State may authorize an alternative statement. Check sosmt.gov for approved alternatives.
Accurate Representation
| Acceptable | Unacceptable |
|---|---|
| "Montana Notary Public" | "Montana Legal Notary" |
| "Notary Services" | "Legal Document Services" |
| "Mobile Notary" | "Immigration Notary" |
| "Notary Signing Agent" | "Loan Specialist" |
Title Restrictions
| Term | Who May Use |
|---|---|
| "Notary Public" | All commissioned notaries |
| "Notario" / "Notario Publico" | Only licensed attorneys |
| "Immigration Specialist" | Only authorized immigration practitioners |
On the Exam
- No false advertising: Claims must be accurate
- Disclosure required: Non-attorneys must use required statement
- No "notario": Unless licensed attorney
- No unauthorized claims: Stay within notary authority
- Accurate titles: Use proper designation only
Test Your Knowledge
Which statement must a non-attorney Montana notary include in their advertising?
A
B
C
D