What to Do When Someone Refuses to Sign

You’ve been there: everything’s ready, your pen is out, your seal is polished, and your client suddenly goes full Houdini:

“I… uh… don’t think I want to sign this after all.”

Cue internal panic. Do you force them? Do you yell? Do you throw your journal across the room?

Relax. This happens more often than you think, and there’s a calm, legal way to handle it.

1. Take a Breath and Stay Neutral

First rule of notary survival: don’t take it personally.

Your job is not to convince anyone to sign. You’re there to witness signatures — not to act as a life coach, mediator, or motivational speaker.

Say something simple:

“That’s perfectly fine. You are under no obligation to sign.”

Your tone should be calm and professional, not pleading or defensive. You’re a public official — you’re expected to be neutral.

2. Confirm the Situation

Sometimes people say “I don’t want to sign” out of confusion or misunderstanding. Take a moment to make sure they actually understand the document and the action they’re being asked to take.

• Ask:

“Are you declining to sign because you don’t understand the document, or because you’ve changed your mind?”

• If they don’t understand, suggest they speak to an attorney or the preparer of the document.

• If they’ve changed their mind, remind them it’s their choice and that no pressure can be applied — legally or ethically.

3. Document the Refusal

Here’s where your journal becomes your best friend:

• Write down the date and time

• Note the person’s name and ID

• Record a brief statement like:

“Signer declined to sign document. No coercion applied.”

Why? Because if there’s ever a legal dispute later, your journal is proof that you stayed professional and neutral.

4. Don’t Try to Persuade

It’s tempting to offer encouragement, logic, or subtle guilt:

“But don’t you want your power of attorney finalized?”

Stop. Don’t.

Even friendly persuasion can cross the line into coercion, which could get your commission suspended. Your job is not to debate or explain the merits of the document — just witness signatures if and when they happen.

5. Offer Options, Not Pressure

You can guide without pushing:

• Suggest they consult a lawyer if they’re unsure.

• Let them know they can return later if they change their mind.

• Keep your tone neutral and factual, like a helpful signpost, not a salesperson.

Example:

“It’s okay to wait. If you decide to sign later, I’ll be available to notarize at your convenience.”

This keeps the door open without risking your integrity.

6. Stay Calm for Yourself

Refusals can feel like personal rejection, especially if it’s your first time or you’ve traveled far for a mobile signing.

Remember: the law protects both the signer and you. Maintaining composure shows professionalism and keeps your commission safe. Bonus: you avoid awkward viral TikTok moments.

Final Thoughts

A signer refusing to sign is stressful, but it’s a normal part of being a notary. Your power comes from your neutrality, your adherence to rules, and your calm professionalism.

The takeaway: don’t argue, don’t persuade, and always document.

Your role is to witness, not convince. If you do that, you’ve handled the situation like a pro — and survived to notarize another day.